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Warts

Integrated Dermatology of North Raleigh

Dermatology located in Midtown, Raleigh, NC

Even though warts aren’t typically anything serious, they still need to be treated by a medical professional. Since wart outbreaks can worsen and spread to other areas of your body, dedicated dermatologist Angela Macri, DO, as well as the rest of the caring Integrated Dermatology of North Raleigh team can treat you right in the office. Book your wart evaluation at this Raleigh, North Carolina, clinic by clicking the online scheduler. You can also call the office directly.

Warts Q & A

Why do I have warts?

Warts develop when a viral invader, known as human papillomavirus (HPV), enters your skin. Not everyone who comes into contact with HPV develops warts. You may have a higher likelihood of a wart outbreak if you have:

  • Sores, wounds, or cuts
  • Weakened immune system
  • History of warts

Warts are contagious and can spread to other parts of your body, as well as to other people. It’s important to understand the signs and symptoms of warts, so you know when to seek professional medical treatment.

What do warts look like?

Warts are tiny growths that can appear anywhere on your body. Some of the most common types of warts are described below.

Common warts

Common warts usually develop on your hands and areas where you have broken skin, such as around your nail bed. These warts are nicknamed “seed warts” because they have tiny black spots in the middle where broken blood vessels are located.

Flat warts

Flat warts are usually smaller and smoother than other types of warts. They often grow in clusters of 20-100 warts at once. Flat warts most commonly form on areas where you shave — like your legs or face — and have nicks or cuts where viruses can enter.

Plantar warts

Plantar warts, or foot warts, form on the soles of your feet. They often have a black pinpoint center and grow in clusters or groups (mosaic warts). Because you walk on these warts daily, they can grow inward, which causes calluses to form over them. This can make it feel like you always have a pebble in your shoe.

You can also develop similar warts in the palms of your hands. These are known as palmar warts.

Genital warts

Genital warts are typically spread through sexual intercourse or even close physical contact. These warts are skin-colored and can have a smooth or rough texture. You can develop genital warts on your vagina, cervix, scrotum, penis, and anus.

How are warts treated?

Warts are notoriously stubborn to treat, so your dedicated dermatologist at Integrated Dermatology of North Raleigh evaluates you thoroughly and discusses your symptoms with you. Depending on the cause and location of your warts, your treatment plan may include:

  • Salicylic acid solutions
  • Freezing medicine (cryotherapy)
  • Surgical excision
  • Electrodesiccation
  • Oral antiviral medications

Even if your warts seem minor or sporadic, it’s important to have the infection treated early on. The team at Integrated Dermatology of North Raleigh personalizes your wart treatment plan, so you can expect effective relief.

Before your warts progress or spread, book an exam at Integrated Dermatology of North Raleigh. You can conveniently book your wart evaluation either online or over the phone.