Why Do Warts Keep Coming Back? How to Stop Wart Recurrence

At least 10% of the population will develop warts. The prevalence rises to 10-20% in children.

These little lesions can become a major problem. They’re caused by the HPV virus and are highly contagious. What’s even worse is that they can be difficult to get rid of for good.

Why do warts keep coming back and what can you do about it? Read on to find out.

The HPV virus is difficult to eradicate. It can remain in the body even after treatment or spread to new areas. Over-the-counter treatments aren’t always enough. Even professional dermatologist wart solutions may not be enough.

Reinfection is all too easy. You could come into contact with contaminated surfaces or skin.

Failing to fully remove the wart leaves infected cells behind. The incision used to remove it can even become infected.

Weakened immune systems leave the body particularly susceptible to reinfection. This can be caused by:

• Stress
• Inadequate nutrition
• Existing health issues

Preventing wart recurrence requires keeping a close eye on your health and daily activities.

Monitor your skin. Check for any new or recurring warts and get treatment as soon as possible.

Get the HPV vaccine before you’re 26 years old. It prevents the virus from showing up and staying in your body.

Practice good hygiene by washing your hands often. Bandage up any cuts to prevent the virus from sneaking in through them.

Avoid sharing personal items. Wear shoes every time you go to a public place such as a gym shower.

Use condoms during sexual activity to reduce the likelihood of transmission. Get screening such as a pap smear to check that the warts aren’t precancerous lesions.

A few of the best wart removal options include:

• Chyroptherapy
• Laser therapy
• Topical medications

Extremely stubborn warts may not respond to these methods. They may keep coming back without more aggressive treatment.

Surgery is the most invasive method. It’s also the most effective option for recurring warts treatment. It removes the area affected by the virus and allows new, healthy skin to grow.

Answering a question like “Why do warts come back” helps you start keeping a better eye on your health. It’s also important to ask “When are they serious enough for me to see the doctor?”

You should get professional medical advice for warts if they continue to return despite treatments. If you’re not sure if it’s a callus, a stubborn cyst, or another type of growth, get a professional diagnosis. You should also get help if the wart:

• Bleeds
• Grows
• Interferes with your daily activities
• Changes in color or appearance
• Becomes painful

Why do warts keep coming back? They’re caused by the stubborn HPV virus, which can come back even after the best treatments. Prevention is key. Don’t share items and keep up with your health. It’ll help stop the warts from coming back or getting worse.

Sandpoint Family Health Center is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive healthcare services. Schedule an appointment with one of our experienced providers today. We’re accepting new patients and offer same-day appointments.