$Unique_ID{BRK01549}
$Pretitle{Infections or Parasites, Genitourinary System}
$Title{Are Genital Warts the Same as the Warts on Your Finger?}
$Subject{warts genital symptoms}
$Volume{A-20, J-20}
$Log{
Genital Warts-female*0006403.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Are Genital Warts the Same as the Warts on Your Finger?


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QUESTION:  I have discovered a problem in my genital area, and believe it may
be a case of warts.  Are these the same as the warts on your finger, and can
they be treated?  Some say that this is a sexual disease, is that true?  I
appreciate any help you can offer me for this problem.

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ANSWER:  Genital warts could be your problem, as they are becoming more and
more common in the United States, although they are treatable.
     The warts are caused by a different type of virus than the kind of wart
that occurs on the hand or foot.  The genital wart virus may be passed on
during any kind of sexual contact, although there is some new evidence that
other routes of infection are also possible.  Once you are infected with the
virus, it may take as long as three months or more before the wart appears.
     When the warts occur, they may cause itching, irritation or bleeding in
and around the genital area.  Sometimes, however, there are no symptoms at
all.  On the outer genitals, the warts are often firm and are dark pink or
red.  They may be as tiny as a pencil tip, or may be in clusters, looking like
tiny cauliflowers.
     They may be hard to notice, if they are tiny.  Therefore, it is very
important that you see a doctor as soon as you suspect that you may be
infected.  Young people with contact with more than one sexual partner
contract this sexually transmitted disease more frequently.
     If your doctor does determine that you do have the warts, it is important
that all of your sexual partners be notified, so that they can get treatment.
And treatment is important for you, too.  Untreated, the warts can change the
cervical tissue, and can eventually become cancerous.  While you are under
treatment, it is important that you do not have sexual activity.  The warts
must be completely gone before you will no longer be contagious to others.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
