Warts are common skin growths caused by certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus stimulates rapid cell growth on the skin’s surface, leading to the characteristic bumpy texture of a wart. While often harmless, many people wonder what happens if these growths are left alone without any specific treatment.
Natural Course of Untreated Warts
Sometimes, warts can resolve on their own without medical intervention. This spontaneous disappearance occurs as the body’s immune system eventually recognizes and fights off the human papillomavirus.
This process of natural resolution is highly variable among individuals. It can take several months for a wart to disappear, and in some cases, it might take a year or even longer. For some people, particularly adults, warts may persist indefinitely without resolving naturally.
Potential Complications of Persistence
When warts persist without resolving, several negative outcomes can occur. One common issue is the potential for warts to spread to other areas of the body, a process known as autoinoculation. This occurs when the virus from an existing wart transfers to a new skin site, leading to additional warts. Warts can also be transmitted to other individuals through direct contact or shared items.
Untreated warts may also increase in size or number over time, making them more noticeable and more challenging to treat later. A small wart can grow into a larger lesion or multiply into multiple smaller warts. Depending on their location, persistent warts can cause pain or discomfort. For instance, warts on the soles of the feet (plantar warts) can be painful when walking, while those on the hands or near joints may interfere with daily activities.
Beyond physical discomfort, persistent warts can cause cosmetic concerns, especially if visible on exposed areas like the hands or face. This can lead to self-consciousness or embarrassment. While the article focuses on common warts, it is worth noting that warts in specific locations, such as the genital area, can have different implications due to the types of HPV involved.
When to Consider Professional Evaluation
Professional medical evaluation for a wart is advisable in several situations:
If a wart becomes painful, starts to bleed, or causes significant discomfort.
If warts are rapidly spreading to other areas of the body or increasing in size and number.
If warts are located in sensitive or cosmetically problematic areas, such as the face or genitals.
If there is uncertainty about whether a skin growth is indeed a wart or something else.
If you have a weakened immune system due to conditions like HIV/AIDS or certain medications.
If home remedies have been attempted without success.