Genital Warts - OTC Treatments For Genital Warts

Genital warts are a highly contagious sexually transmitted disease. They are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Genital warts usually appear as grey or flesh-colored tiny bumps that are cauliflower-like. They are small, about 2 millimeters in diameter, but they can grow in large clusters and spread out into huge masses in the genital and anal areas. Furthermore, they may manifest in the mouth and throat of individuals who have engaged in oral sex with an infected partner.

HPV can lie dormant in your system for as short as a few weeks to as long as several years without showing any symptoms. However, it does not mean that while the HPV is in the incubation phase, you cannot spread it or contract it. This makes it hard to determine whether or not you have the said virus in our system, especially if no symptoms manifest. The best way to find out is to visit your doctor regularly for a check-up. He will conduct tests in order to verify if you have HPV. If you do, he will recommend the appropriate treatment plan depending on your medical history and the nature of your genital warts.

Over-the-Counter Treatment

But instead of visiting a doctor, some people prefer to purchase over-the-counter treatments. Genital warts are a serious and sensitive health disorder that has both physical and emotional effects on the sufferers. Since some over-the-counter treatments have been proven safe and effective in getting rid of genital warts, those sufferers can be spared from the expense, pain, and embarrassment that a visit to the doctor can bring about. If you do decide to buy over-the-counter treatments, make sure that you know how to use them. When used in the wrong way, they may have side effects and may damage your other healthy tissues. Also, make sure that they are compatible with the other treatments that you are using, if any. Some over-the-counter treatments may be dangerous if used alongside incompatible medications.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a popular component of many over-the-counter genital wart. The skin should be moistened with warm water in order to enhance the treatments' effects. Remove loose tissue, if any, and dry the affected area thoroughly. Then, apply the treatment directly on the warts. Those who have used salicylic acid solutions claim that their condition improved within a week or two. Note, however, that people with weak immune systems should refrain from using these products. Salicylic acid genital warts treatments are not recommended for use on warts with hair and on irritated areas. Pregnant women should also avoid them since they may have side effects on the fetus.

Natural Topical Gels

Aside from salicylic acid-based treatments, there are also natural topical gels that boost the skin's immune system to help it combat HPV. Examples include tea tree oil and grape seed extract. These products work not by destroying the tissue, but by helping your body overcome HPV on its own. About 50 percent of those who have tried these gels claim that they got positive results within a few weeks.