As we head into the sunny days of summer, many of us are excited to spend time outdoors, perhaps by the pool. However, with the increase in pool activities, the likelihood of children developing warts also rises. In this blog, we will explore different types of warts, how they develop, their contagious nature, and the various treatment options available at our Wart Clinic in Calgary and Okotoks.

Understanding Warts:

Warts are small, benign growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus triggers extra cell growth in a specific area, resulting in a thickened and hardened outer layer of skin. Warts can appear on various parts of the body, including hands, feet, the genital area, and the face. Here are the most common types of warts:

• Plantar Warts: Found on the soles of the feet, these warts can be hard, painful, and grow inward due to constant pressure of walking.
• Common Warts: Typically found on fingers and hands, these warts have a rough, grainy appearance.
• Flat Warts: Smaller and smoother, these warts tend to appear in clusters on the face, neck, or legs.
• Filiform Warts: These warts have a long, narrow shape and usually appear on the face, particularly around the mouth, eyes, and nose.
• Genital Warts: Caused by specific strains of HPV, these warts appear in the genital and anal areas and are primarily transmitted through sexual contact. While genital warts are more common in adults, it’s important to be aware of them as part of the broader spectrum of HPV-related warts.

How Warts Develop and Their Contagious Nature:

Warts develop when the HPV virus enters the skin through a small cut or abrasion. They are highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with a wart or indirectly through contaminated surfaces, such as pool decks and locker rooms. Children are more susceptible due to their frequent close contact with others and their developing immune systems. Genital warts, specifically, spread through sexual contact and are less of a concern for children but important to consider for overall HPV awareness.

Advanced Wart Treatments at Our Clinic:

At our wart clinic, we offer a range of effective treatments to help your child get rid of warts quickly and safely. These treatments include:

• CO2 Laser: This precise laser treatment vaporizes the wart tissue.
• Electrocautery: This method uses an electric current to burn off the wart.
• Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, causing it to fall off over time.
• Cantharone: A topical treatment that causes the wart to blister and eventually fall off.
• Cantharone Plus (Includes Podophyllin): A stronger formulation for more stubborn warts.
• Trichloroacetic Acid: This acid solution is applied to the wart to gradually remove it.
• Vitamin D Injections: Boosts the body’s immune response to fight off the wart.
• Falkner Technique: A specialized method for difficult-to-treat warts.

Preventing Warts:

Preventing warts is challenging but not impossible. Here are some tips to reduce the risk:

• Encourage children to wear flip-flops or water shoes in public showers and around pools.
• Teach children not to share personal items like towels, socks, or shoes.
• Ensure they wash their hands regularly and keep any cuts or abrasions clean and covered.

No Referral Needed:

At our wart clinic, we make it easy for you to get the treatment your child needs without the hassle of a referral. Our expert team is ready to help you address any wart concerns quickly and effectively.

Conclusion

Warts can be a common issue for children, especially in environments like pools and moist areas where the virus thrives. By understanding how warts develop and spread, and knowing the available treatments, you can help keep your child’s skin healthy and wart-free. If you suspect your child has warts, don’t hesitate to contact our clinic for a consultation. We’re here to provide the best care and treatment to ensure your child enjoys a happy, healthy summer.