VERRUCAS AND WARTS
Verrucas and warts are caused by viruses that infect the skin.
They are common and affect about 10% of the population at any one time
There are three ways to deal with verrucas and warts:
- About 70% of verrucas and warts will resolve within 2 year without
treatment, without causing any discomfort, and without leaving a
scar. This is achieved by the body's own immune system
- Using medicine purchased from a pharmacist (usually apply ointment
or gel for a period of weeks)
- Treatment by a doctor using liquid nitrogen - this speeds up the natural process
Adverse effects from the use of liquid nitrogen
- Pain during treatment
- Swelling and blistering of the skin after a few hours, and lasting
up to 10 days
- Development of infection
- Scarring
- Pain, especially with warts on the feet or if scarring occurs
After liquid nitrogen treatment a painkiller may be taken to deal with any discomfort that develops. The scab that forms will drop off after about 3 weeks. Please note that liquid nitrogen therapy usually has to be repeated, the average number of treatments is 3, and these have to be separated by at least 1 month
Source: www.leedsstudentmedicalpractice.co.uk
NHS
Direct 0845 46 47 www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
