Can genital warts heal on their own?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on September 13, 2024
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Genital warts are caused by a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is a sexually transmitted disease. This disease is generally more common among sexually active people. This condition does not heal on its own, which means it generally will not improve without proper treatment. If not treated, the condition can worsen and spread, primarily affecting the external genitalia or the area around the anus. The most common treatment involves the use of lasers to remove the warts, followed by antiviral medication. This disease has a high recurrence rate, so it is essential to persist with the treatment over the long term. Complete recovery is possible eventually. Additionally, it's important to exercise regularly to boost the immune system.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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How long does it take for symptoms of genital warts to appear after infection?

Genital warts are caused by an infection with the human papillomavirus and are a type of sexually transmitted disease. Most cases are contracted directly through sexual contact. The incubation period of this disease varies: some may develop cauliflower-like growths one to two weeks after infection, while others may only show symptoms several months later, even up to seven or eight months. Once symptoms appear, it is crucial to seek proper treatment at a dermatology department of a formal hospital. The warts can be completely removed with laser treatment, followed by local application of interferon or injection of interferon solution directly into the affected area. This disease is highly contagious and recurrent and requires a long treatment period. Persistent treatment is essential, along with regular exercise to boost the immune system. Avoid spicy and irritating foods and abstain from sexual contact during the treatment period.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Are common warts and genital warts the same?

Common warts and genital warts are different. Although both common warts and genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, they belong to different subtypes of the virus, and their routes of infection also vary. Common contact or touching objects contaminated with the virus that causes common warts can lead to infection, and the affected areas can be located throughout various parts of the body, including the external genitalia, genitals, and perianal area. Genital warts are primarily transmitted through sexual contact and are a sexually transmitted disease. This disease is generally spread through sexual intercourse, leading to cross-infection between partners. The most common locations for genital warts are the external genitalia, perianal area, and the mouth. Genital warts generally do not grow on normal skin. Once genital warts appear, the treatment period is longer, and the recurrence rate is higher. Common warts usually can be treated successfully with one or two conventional treatments.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can genital warts be completely cured?

Genital warts are caused by an infection with the papillomavirus, commonly known as the HPV virus. Once infected, the treatment can be quite troublesome, but with long-term, standardized, and effective treatment, it is entirely curable. The outbreak of this disease is generally directly related to sexual contact, but some people might also get infected by staying in hotels, using public toilets, or bathing in public baths. The most common treatment involves using laser to remove the warty growths, followed by antiviral and immune-boosting medications. Additionally, it is important to exercise regularly to enhance immunity, avoid spicy and irritating foods, abstain from alcohol, and ensure that worn underwear is sun-dried and disinfected to prevent cross-infection. During the treatment period, sexual contact should be avoided.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can medication cure warts?

Genital warts, also known as condyloma acuminata, are commonly treated with comprehensive methods. Medication alone may cure the condition, but not all patients can be cured solely through medication. For genital warts, the recommended treatment includes topical and oral medications. Topical treatments may include imiquimod cream, podophyllin resin, or 5-fluorouracil cream, while oral medications may consist of antiviral drugs, or those that adjust and enhance the patient's immune system. Besides pharmacotherapy, physical and photodynamic therapies are also preferred methods, offering better treatment options for curing genital warts. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What should I do after being infected with genital warts?

Genital warts are mainly transmitted through sexual contact and are caused by an HPV virus infection. This disease is highly contagious and recurrent. Once infected, one should not engage in sexual contact and must seek standard treatment at the dermatology department of a formal hospital. Initial treatment typically involves using laser to remove the warts, followed by the application of antiviral medications and oral medications to boost immunity. The treatment period for this disease is quite lengthy, and there is a very high recurrence rate half a month after the first treatment, necessitating multiple treatments at the hospital. During treatment, it is advised to avoid spicy and irritating foods, abstain from alcohol, increase exercise, and enhance immunity. If the disease repeatedly recurs and treatments are ineffective, photodynamic therapy can also be considered. Overall, the treatment costs are relatively high, but with long-term persistent treatment, it can be cured.