 Genital wart removal can be extremely difficult and the choice of treatments is vast. Here we look at some of the choices currently available.
Genital warts are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus type 2. The herpes simplex virus type 1 is the virus which causes cold sores, the painful blisters and swelling seen on the lips of sufferers. The two are very closely related and it would seem that type 1 has adapted its self for its new environment.
When the genital area or anus becomes infected with the virus the surrounding skin also becomes infected and causes changes to the skin, warts, (small fleshy growths) or bumps. While the warts don’t cause a risk to the sufferer’s health, they can cause psychological distress as they are unsightly and uncomfortable.
While as yet there is no cure for genital warts there are treatments on the market and on prescription that can help with genital wart removal.
Treatments include:
- Antiviral medications
- Homeopathic treatments
- Over the counter treatments
- Herbal treatments
- Cryotherpy - freezing
Some treatments can take up to 3 months before any improvement is seen.
Antiviral medications in the form of creams or gels are available on prescription these include Imiquimod and Pondofilox, the cream or gel can be applied by the patient to the affected areas. Other antiviral medications can only be applied by a doctor as they can cause damage to surrounding skin for example TCA (Trichloracetic Acid). Homeopathic treatments can be a safer alternative for removing genital warts as they are produced using natural ingredients. The preparation Wartrol for example is sprayed under the tongue and acts rather like a vaccine to fight the Herpes Simplex virus and help get rid of genital warts. Over the counter treatments needless to say there are numerous potions and lotions claiming to be able to help in the removal of genital warts. Every drug store will have plenty to choose from, and some may work for some people.
Herbal treatments for those who maybe want to try a natural approach to treatment there are many remedies. These can include the use of garlic, Tea Tree Oil, Echinacea, raw potatoes, to name but a few. While none of these natural remedies are likely to cause any harm, whether they would help in genital wart removal is open to debate.
Cryotherpy – freezing. This treatment should always be carried out by a professional, due to the risks of severe tissue damage. It can be very effective, but genital warts can still grow back.
For those seeking to remove genital warts there is a vast range of products from the relatively inexpensive to the very expensive, because genital warts are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 or HSV2 the best a patient can hope for is control of the warts.
Complete removal of genital warts is not yet possible, but research continues around the world in the hope of being able to discover a vaccine or other treatment to eliminate the Herpes Simplex Virus and offer a cure for those infected. | 