Warts
Warts are small, raised, rough-feeling lumps that most often appear on your hands or feet.
Warts usually disappear without treatment. However they may be uncomfortable if they are in an area that is easily irritated.
Warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) so that can be passed to other people through skin to skin contact or via a contaminated area or object such as:
- Around swimming pools
- In gym areas and changing rooms
- Towels
- Shoes
You can also spread warts to other parts of your body if you scratch the wart or bite finger nails that have warts around them.
Although warts usually disappear on their own, they can remain for up to two years. If your warts are uncomfortable or causing you distress they can be treated using over the counter medications available at your pharmacy.
If conservative treatments are not successful your GP may refer you to a Consultant Dermatologist.