Warts are caused by a virus that brings about abnormal skin growths. When dealing with warts in children, keep in mind that the condition can spread from one part of the body to another. The good news is that the condition does not affect children for a long time. In most cases, it takes not more than 2 years to disappear completely.
Although warts are not life threatening, it’s important to learn as much as you can to effectively manage the situation. Warts usually occur on the face, fingers, feet and hands.
What Causes Warts?
The ‘Human Papilloma Virus’ abbreviated as HPV is the virus responsible for causing warts. It may take a period of close to 1 year for the symptoms to start showing once a person is infected. After they become visible, they’ll continue developing gradually.
How Long Do Warts Last?
The time duration in which warts in children last depends on several factors. The main ones include: Genes, immune system and other medical conditions. However, parents can rest easy because the problem does not last long in children. Expect your child to fully recover from the ordeal in 2 years. Recovery signs will start showing within the first year.
How Are Warts Spread?
There are several ways through which this virus can spread, they include:
Scratching and picking. When a child repeatedly scratches the affected areas, other parts of the body may get affected as a result.
When there is body contact with a patient. When a person who is not infected with the virus comes into physical contact with a patient, he/she can get warts.
Children with cuts on their bodies can get warts in public showers and pools.
What Are the Symptoms of Warts in Children?
There are numerous signs of warts but the most common are:
- Large lumps on skin
- Itchiness
- Roughness on skin
- Long stalks
- Shiny patches on skin
What Are the Treatment Options for Warts?
If warts are no causing any harm to your child’s health, ignore them. There is no need to seek medical treatment because they’ll disappear sooner or later. Nevertheless, try to keep the situation under control particularly if the warts are causing severe side effects.
Be advised that there are no recommended treatment methods by doctors. Most of the remedies for warts in children have not yet been proven as effective albeit numerous people vouch for them, especially online.
One of the best ways of handling the situation is by covering the warts. Since warts are unsightly and embarrassing, it’s prudent to use duct tape to prevent the infection from spreading. Another technique is by using liquid nitrogen. This is a very painful procedure but will help in improving warts. There are also many different types of ointments readily available over-the-counter for warts.
On a conclusive note, seek medical attention as soon as the warts cause severe symptoms and unbearable pain. Warts in children can be managed when these essential tips are implemented as required.
The most important thing with childrens warts is to make certain that they are covered to help prevent them being spread. Many of the wart removal products and treatments will work just the same for children as they do for adults. They will however disappear themselves without treatment over time.