Warts can be found on any area of your body and common warts are generally the most present warts although there are different types of warts that can be found in other parts of the body. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause for warts and other illnesses basically make your body more susceptible to this virus. HPV is a contagious disease but once it is in your body tends to stay in one area and not spread. There are over 100 different strains of HPV known currently. Common warts are generally found on the backs of your fingers, knees, and toes. These warts tend to be dome shaped.

Common warts are very frequently found on your knees, toes and the backs of fingers. Plantar warts, found on the bottom of your foot, are different from Plantar’s warts. Warts found around or under your nails are called periungual warts and filliform warts tend to be long, single stalks that generally occur on the face.

Humans catch HPV by having a break or crack in the skin where the virus can find access to the body. HPV prefers warm, moist places to grow so you need to be careful in public showers and locker rooms, always wear those shower shoes! You can have HPV for many months before warts form as it has a long incubation time. Many individuals’ bodies can naturally fight HPV and will kill the virus before any warts can form.

You may be more susceptible to warts if you have some sort of immune system deficiency, as your body can’t fight against the HPV virus. Dry skin also allows more access to your body for the HPV virus as dry skin, cracks and breaks easily. You can also get warts around your nails if you common bit your nails or have hang nails as this provides a point of entry for the HPV virus.

Over the counter medication is the most common treatment for warts. Though warts that are painful, multiplying rapidly and do not naturally disappear should be inspected by a doctor. The dermatologist will be able to determine the exact cause of your warts and how the best treatment for you to use. Most warts are easily treated and will disappear fairly quickly. There are a few types like Plantar’s warts, which are more stubborn and require different treatment.

Warts of also a symptom of other conditions and if you are particularly susceptible to warts you should ask your doctor if you may have any other medical conditions causing warts. Warts are a symptom of the HPV virus, tuberous sclerosis (Hereditary disorder), eczema, WHIM syndrome (immunodeficiency disease), and Molluscum