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Key points
Key points- Warts can come back because the human papillomavirus (HPV) can remain in the skin after the visible lesion is removed.
- A weakened immune system, reinfection, skin irritation, and lack of medical follow-up can all contribute to their return.
- Good hygiene, leaving lesions alone, and not sharing personal items are measures that can help prevent them.
- If warts grow, change, bleed, or return often, it is wise to see a specialist.
Why warts come back
Warts are one of the most common skin conditions. Although they can be treated, many people notice they return over time, because the virus that causes them can remain in the skin.
In this article, you will learn the main causes of warts, the factors that influence their return, and the measures that can help prevent them.
What are warts and why do they appear?
Warts are skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are different types, depending on the area of the body where they appear and the type of virus involved.
Transmission occurs mainly through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces. Once the virus enters the skin, it can remain dormant for weeks or months before becoming visible.
Why do warts come back?
Even if a wart has been removed, the virus may still be present in the body. These are the most common reasons warts return:
The virus was not completely eliminated
Some treatments remove the visible lesion but do not eradicate the virus from the surrounding skin.
Weakened immune system
A weakened immune system makes it easier for HPV to become active again.
Reinfection
Contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces can cause new warts.
Skin irritation
Scratching, shaving, or manipulating lesions helps the virus spread.
Lack of medical follow-up
Not completing the appropriate treatment can increase the risk of recurrence.
Factors that increase the risk of warts
Some factors that contribute to the appearance and return of warts are:
- Direct contact with active lesions.
- Poor hygiene.
- Sharing personal items.
- Small skin injuries.
- A weakened immune system.
How to prevent warts
Prevention helps reduce the risk of developing new warts. Here are some recommendations:
Maintain good hygiene
Wash your hands frequently and keep your skin clean and dry.
Avoid direct contact
Do not touch other people's warts or your own lesions.
Do not share personal items
Avoid sharing towels, underwear, or razors.
Protect your skin
Cover cuts or wounds to keep the virus from entering.
Strengthen your immune system
Sleeping well, eating healthy, and reducing stress can help your body fight infections.
Avoid manipulating warts
Scratching or cutting lesions makes it easier for the virus to spread.
See a specialist
A timely diagnosis can reduce complications.
When is it necessary to see a doctor?
- Your warts grow quickly.
- They change color or shape.
- They cause pain, bleeding, or discomfort.
- They do not go away with initial treatments.
- They return frequently.
Book an evaluationWarts and their relationship with other infections
Some warts are associated with sexually transmitted infections, which is why it is important to take preventive measures.
Can warts be removed permanently?
No treatment eliminates HPV from the body, but current treatments can remove visible lesions and may reduce the risk of recurrence. Medical follow-up and healthy habits can help keep your skin free of warts.
A doctor may recommend options such as electrosurgery, cryotherapy, or topical treatments, depending on the type of warts.
Maintaining good hygiene, avoiding direct contact, and seeing a specialist are steps that help protect your health. If you notice changes in your skin or lesions that come back, have them evaluated by a specialist.
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