Is This a Wart?
Hello everyone, I’m a 31-year-old woman, standing at 5'7" and weighing around 143 pounds. I don’t smoke or drink alcohol, and I’m not on any medications at the moment. Approximately a year ago, I discovered a small growth on my palm, and I initially suspected it could be a wart (images excluded for privacy). To address it, I applied a topical treatment containing lactic acid and salicylic acid, which resulted in some removal of the growth. However, it reappeared quickly, prompting me to use the treatment again. While it seemed to work temporarily, the issue continues to recur. Is there anyone here who can confirm whether this is indeed a wart and offer advice on how to effectively eliminate it permanently?
Answers (1)
7/31/2025, 7:31:07 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've been dealing with a persistent growth on your palm that may be a wart. Warts are usually caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can recur, especially if they aren't fully removed.
Explanation
Warts often appear as rough, raised bumps and can be skin-colored or slightly darker. Your use of topical treatments like lactic acid and salicylic acid is a common approach, as these ingredients help to break down the wart's surface. However, because warts can embed deeper into the skin, they may not respond fully to at-home treatments, leading to recurrence.
Next Steps
Here are some prioritized actions you can take:
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Continue Treatment: If you haven't seen complete removal, continue using the topical treatment, following the package instructions closely for the best results. Ensure you apply it consistently to the area.
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Try Over-the-Counter Freezing Kits: These products replicate the cryotherapy done in a doctor's office and can be effective for some warts. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging surrounding skin.
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Keep the Area Clean: Make sure to maintain good hygiene. Washing your hands regularly and keeping the area dry can help discourage recurrence.
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Avoid Picking or Scratching: This can spread the virus to other areas of your skin.
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Monitor the Growth: Keep an eye on the size, color, and changes in appearance. If it starts to bleed, become painful, or if you notice new growths appear, seek further advice.
If your wart continues to persist or spread despite these methods, consider looking into professional treatments such as cryotherapy, laser removal, or electrosurgery options. Let me know if you need any further information or support!
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