Warts and Verrucas: 5 Common Signs and When to See a Doctor

Warts and Verrucas: 5 Common Signs and When to See a Doctor

Warts and verrucas are small, non-cancerous skin growths that affect nearly 10% of adults and 20% of children. While they are generally harmless and often disappear on their own, they are contagious and can occasionally be painful.

What Causes Warts and Verrucas?

Both are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). There are over 100 strains of HPV; some cause “common warts” on the fingers, while others cause “plantar warts”—better known as verrucas—on the soles of the feet.

The virus enters the body through tiny cuts or scratches in the skin. This is why they are common in public areas like swimming pools, gyms, and communal showers where people walk barefoot.

5 Common Signs You Have a Wart or Verruca

Identifying the growth correctly is the first step toward treatment. Here are the five most common clinical signs:

1. The “Cauliflower” Texture

Common warts usually appear on the hands, knuckles, or knees. They have a firm, raised, and rough surface that often resembles the head of a cauliflower.

2. Tiny Black Dots (Seed Warts)

If you look closely at a wart, you may see tiny black specks. These are not actually seeds; they are clotted blood vessels (thrombosed capillaries) that have grown into the wart to supply it with blood.

3. Flattened Growth with a Calloused Rim

Because verrucas appear on the soles of the feet, the pressure of walking flattens them. Instead of growing outward, they grow into the skin. They often develop a hard, thickened rim of skin around them, similar to a corn or callus.

4. “Mosaic” Clusters

Sometimes, a single “mother” wart will shed the virus into the surrounding skin, causing a cluster of dozens of small warts to grow together. This is known as a mosaic wart and is most common on the hands or feet.

5. Pain Upon Pressure

While warts on the hands are usually painless, verrucas can be quite uncomfortable. Because they are pushed into the foot by your body weight, it can feel like you are walking on a small stone.

When Should You See a Doctor?

The NHS and most healthcare providers suggest “watchful waiting,” as 60% of warts resolve spontaneously within two years. However, you should book a GP appointment if:

• You are unsure of the diagnosis: If the growth has an irregular border, is bleeding, or has changed color (moles can sometimes be mistaken for warts).

• Pain is affecting your life: If a verruca makes walking or exercise difficult.

• You are immunocompromised: People with weakened immune systems (e.g., HIV or chemotherapy) should seek professional treatment to prevent spreading.

• Home treatments fail: If over-the-counter salicylic acid or freezing kits haven’t worked after several months.

• Facial or Genital Warts: Never attempt to treat warts on the face or genital area at home; these require specialist clinical intervention.

Treatment Options: From Home to Clinic

Top Tips for Prevention

1. Wear Flip-Flops: Always wear shoes in communal showers, gym changing rooms, and pool sides.

2. Don’t Share: Avoid sharing towels, socks, or pumice stones with someone who has a wart.

3. Hands Off: Do not pick at a wart; this can spread the virus to other fingers or even your face.

4. Keep it Dry: Warts thrive in damp conditions. Dry your feet thoroughly after bathing.

Summary

Warts and verrucas are a common part of life and usually disappear without any medical intervention. By identifying the signs early and maintaining good hygiene, you can prevent them from spreading to others.