Common warts are rough, raised, and grainy growths on the skin. They can happen anywhere on your body, but mostly on the hands or fingers. Clotted blood vessels are usually visible in these areas as darkened, small spots. It often takes around 2 to 6 months for the condition to develop. They are often harmless and subside without any treatment option. Below are some basic facts that you need to know about the causes and risk factors of common warts.
Human Papillomavirus
The main cause of common warts is the infection of human papillomavirus or HPV. This is a relatively common virus with more than 100 strains. They can be transmitted quickly from people to people through direct contact or sexual activities. The virus tends to penetrate the body through any break in the skin, such as a scrape or a hangnail. Biting the nails would also make common warts spread to other parts of the nails or fingertips. In general, the spots often occur after 2 to 6 months when you were exposed to the HPV for the first time. This virus leads to excess production of keratin protein on the skin surface, thus causing a wart. [1]
