What Are Warts?
Warts are small, rough skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They're extremely common in children — about 10-20% of school-age children have warts at any given time. While they can be annoying, warts are harmless and not a sign of poor hygiene.
Types of Warts
- Common warts — Rough, dome-shaped bumps, usually on hands and fingers
- Plantar warts — Flat, hard growths on the soles of the feet
- Flat warts — Small, smooth, flat-topped bumps, often on the face
- Periungual warts — Around or under fingernails and toenails
Treatment Options
- Watch and wait — Many warts resolve on their own within 1-2 years
- Over-the-counter salicylic acid — Applied daily; works gradually over weeks
- Duct tape method — Cover the wart with duct tape for 6 days, then soak and file. Some studies show this is effective
- Cryotherapy — Freezing with liquid nitrogen (done at the doctor's office)
- Prescription treatments — For stubborn warts that don't respond to other methods
When to Call the Pediatrician
- Wart is painful or bleeding
- Warts are spreading rapidly
- Warts are on the face or genital area
- Home treatment hasn't worked after 2-3 months
- You're not sure if the growth is actually a wart
Prevention Tips
- Wash hands regularly
- Wear flip-flops in public showers and pool areas
- Don't pick at or bite warts
- Don't share towels or personal items
- Keep warts covered with a bandage to prevent spreading
Key Takeaways
- Warts are very common, harmless, and caused by a virus
- Most go away on their own, but treatment can speed things up
- Salicylic acid is the most common and effective home treatment
- See your pediatrician for facial warts, painful warts, or treatment-resistant warts
