HPV Warts

How Bad Are They?

HPV is the short form of human papilloma virus – a virus which causes formation of warts all over the skin – particularly in the genital area. HPV is very contagious. It can be caught through sexual intercourse, use of infected towels and even through walking barefoot in places where ths virus would thrive such as pool sides, locker rooms, etc.

The HPV warts do not manifest themselves immediately after the infection is contacted. In fact, this is one reason why this is one of the most easily passed on virus. It has an incubation period of about three weeks. However, it sometimes takes a lot more time for it to show any symptoms. There are times when a carrier of the virus experiences the symptoms after one whole year has passed from the initial contact.

How Do The HPV Warts Look Like?

This is a tough question to answer because there are so many types of warts out there. Some are flat and hardly seen (which actually are not visible to the eyes of a lay person) while some are huge and growing; while yet others manifest themselves into huge groups that not only look terrible but also are highly uncomfortable. Most of the time, these warts are painless and do not disturb too much. This is one reason why the affected person is not inclined to visit a doctor when they discover that they have these HPV warts. However, if left untreated they can spread widely and become both painful and uncomfortable; besides they look terrible.

In case you want to know how the HPV warts look like, use the information available on the Internet. There are many sites which describe in depth the HPV warts form A to Z in a simple terms manner which any lay person can understand. You will also find pictures of warts so you would get an idea about what to look for when you check yourself out. Be warned though that genital warts photos can be very graphic and unless you are prepared can make you feel sick.

Getting Rid Of Warts

It is extremely unfortunate if you caught the virus and developed the HPV warts. However, do not despair. There are many methods in today’s world thanks to the modern medicine and techniques that would help you get rid of genital warts. Though there are no warts cures as such, doctors could prescribe a tailor made treatment depending upon the symptoms which would differ from person to person.

Often, if the treatment is started early and followed through carefully the warts formation would be checked and the other associated symptoms such as itching, burning, etc banished. When the warts are persistent and do not answer to treatment, they would have to be removed surgically or through other available methods as per the doctor’s advice.

Since HPV warts are found mostly in the genital area, the removal becomes a problem for those who feel self-conscious about themselves. However, unless the warts are removed they could become painful and even cancerous after a period of time.