What are warts/verrucas?
Warts and plantar warts (verrucas) are small, hard lumps on the skin. They are caused by a virus. Warts often appear on the feet, hands and face, though they can appear elsewhere on the body. They spread through skin-to-skin contact. They are common in children and teens, and also occur in people with suppressed immune systems. Warts can go away by themselves, though sometimes this can take months or years. They are not harmful.
What will my GP do now about my warts/verrucas?
Your GP will talk with you about treatment options. Your treatment options will include:
Do nothing: Warts can clear on their own within two years
Gel, cream or liquid: Apply to the wart as often as your GP recommends, it can take many months to work
Freezing: Your GP will do this weekly until the wart is gone, this can be painful
Your GP will also give you advice about preventing more warts, or stopping your warts from spreading on your skin or to others.
What will my GP do in the future about my warts/verrucas?
If you treat the warts, your GP will see you for a follow-up. Your GP may refer you to a podiatrist if your warts aren’t getting better.
