For those who are infected with the human papillomavirus (HPV), they may begin to notice flesh-coloured growths occurring around their genital areas. These growths are referred to as genital warts, and they can cause discomfort for those infected with the virus.
While the infection is incurable, fortunately there are various warts treatments available that can help to eliminate these growths. Let us explore the treatment options available and their possible side-effects to see which treatment suits you the best.
Topical ointments
There are two ointments commonly prescribed by doctors to treat and remove genital warts. These creams are not available over-the-counter as you would require a prescription from a doctor.
The ointments used for genital warts include:
- Sinecatechins
Sinecatechins is the most common ointment prescribed by doctors as it is highly effective. It is typically used to manage external and anal warts. The cream has to be applied to the affected areas three times daily, over a period of four months.
Most users experience itchiness, a burning sensation and some discomfort in the affected areas when the ointment is applied. The areas of your skin that are covered with warts may turn red due to these side effects.
- Imiquimod
Similar to Sinecatechins, Imiquimod is used to remove external warts. This ointment is applied three times weekly for up to four months. It is also able to boost your immune system to help fight off the HPV infection.
The effects include redness, itching, scabbing and flaking. There may be an exaggerated response to the skin to clear the skin lesions after three to four applications – and some patients may experience inflammation on surrounding untreated areas but it will settle when treatment has stopped. However, if there are black scabs and ulceration, the cream should be discontinued.
Surgical procedures
Depending on the severity of your condition, there are also other forms of treatment provided in wart removal clinics to help you eliminate your genital warts.
The surgical procedures to remove genital warts include:
- Electrodesiccation
General anaesthesia is typically administered to the targeted area during an electrodesiccation procedure before an electric current is utilised to burn off the warts. This treatment is highly effective, and most patients take four to six weeks to recover from the process.
After the procedure, you may experience temporary side effects, such as bleeding and scarring. With proper care, these wounds will heal over time, and the scarring will disappear.
- Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is a quick and effective solution to your genital warts issue. However, one has to undergo multiple treatments to maintain the result over time.
Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze off the warts, which causes blisters to form around the affected areas. Once the blisters heal, the warts will fall away from the skin. Due to the nature of this treatment, swelling may occur around the surrounding areas, which can cause you temporary discomfort and pain.
- Laser surgery
Laser surgery is typically recommended when the warts are extensive or when they grow in difficult to access areas. There are various types of laser surgeries performed to remove warts, but the most common procedure involves using a pulsed-dye laser.
There are tiny blood vessels inside the warts, and the heat from the pulsed-dye laser will eliminate these vessels. Without the blood vessels sustaining the warts, they will die and fall off your skin.
The surgery will leave you with temporary wounds that may scar and bleed. As such, you have to pay careful attention when treating these wounds so they do not cause further complications.
Conclusion
If you discover you have genital warts, consult your doctor immediately. Genital warts can cause discomfort, but with the proper treatment, you will soon be able to stay on top of your condition.
Genital warts can make you more vulnerable to other sexually transmitted diseases. It is crucial that you schedule a check-up regularly to prevent further complications. If you are concerned about your sexual health, call Elyon Clinic at 6802 7208 and schedule an appointment with our doctor today.
