When Do Warts Become a Health Concern?

Warts are common infections that stem from human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts can develop when this virus enters the skin through a break or cut. They can appear just about anywhere head to foot and even in the genital area. 

Most warts are no cause for concern and fade away on their own. Some, however, can cause problems and require treatment or removal. 

The wart specialists at Dermatology Associates of Central NJ in Old Bridge, Freehold, and Union, New Jersey, offer effective treatments to get rid of your warts and the underlying virus.

Here’s more about warts, when to be concerned about them, and how we can treat them. 

Recognizing a wart 

Warts can vary in appearance and form on any part of the body. The most common warts appear as a small, raised bump on the skin. The bump might be darker than the surrounding skin or blend in perfectly. There are several types of warts: 

Common warts

These are generally light in color and feel rough to the touch. Small dots are usually visible. 

Plantar warts

These grow on the bottom of the feet and make walking painful. They may also have small, black dots.

Periungual warts

These tiny, pin-sized bumps grow around the fingernails. They can grow larger or multiply. 

Filiform warts

These resemble skin tags and commonly appear on the mouth, eyelids, or nose.

Flat warts

These pin-sized bumps with a smooth, flat top appear on the face and legs. 

Our specialists at Dermatology Associates of Central NJ can identify and diagnose the type of warts you have and recommend steps to care for them or remove them if needed. 

When does a wart become a health concern?

Most warts are harmless and go away in time. Some warts become problematic and require treatment or removal by a medical professional. Never attempt to remove warts at home. They should always be examined by a doctor and treated appropriately and safely. 

When should you become concerned about a wart? 

• If it bleeds or oozes liquid 
• If it becomes painful 
• If it grows rapidly 
• If it spreads or multiplies 

There are several options to treat warts. 

How are warts treated? 

Your Dermatology Associates of Central NJ specialist evaluates the wart and considers its size, location, and other factors before recommending appropriate treatment. 

Our treatment options include:

• Salicylic acid: Dissolves wart tissue; comes as a topical gel, liquid, or skin pad.
• Liquid nitrogen: Freezes the wart (cryotherapy) so dead tissue can be removed.
• Electrical stimulation: Electrical energy kills the wart for removal.
• Surgery: Your specialist removes the wart and skin around it to prevent regrowth. 

If you have concerns about your warts, book a consultation with Dermatology Associates of Central NJ. We’re happy to examine them and go over the available treatment options. Call or book online at one of our three convenient New Jersey offices.