It is important to use precautions to limit the spread of genital warts. Some people get warts depending on how often they are exposed to the virus. Warts occur more easily if the skin has been damaged in some way, which explains the high frequency in people who bite their nails or pick at their cuticles. Some people are just more likely to contract warts than others, just like some people catch colds more easily than others do. Weakened immune systems, lack of adequate rest, poor nutrition, increased stress and close living quarters can also contribute to catching the wart virus.
Warts often disappear without treatment over a period of several months to years.
However, since warts can be spread to others or new areas of the body, it is reasonable to treat most people, especially if the warts are bothersome or painful. This treatment is not too painful and rarely results in scarring. However, repeat treatments at 2-3 week intervals are often necessary for complete resolution. Plantar warts are difficult to treat because the bulk of the wart lies below the skin surface. Treatments may include the use of salicylic acid plasters, bichloracetic acid, liquid nitrogen or a combination of these products.