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Ways to Relieve Human Papillomavirus Symptoms at Home

According to the Mayo Clinic, human papillomavirus (HPV) infections are fairly common. As a matter of fact, 20 million people in the United States have HPV. If you're struggling with the unsightly symptoms of HPV, you might benefit from some basic at-home remedies.

  1. HPV Treatments at Home

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, the HPV virus can potentially cause abnormal growths on various parts of your body. You could experience genital warts, lesions, or even common and plantar warts on non-sexual parts of your body. To help treat uncomfortable abnormal growths at home, make sure to keep the area clean and dry. Make sure that you take a daily bath or shower and then gently pat the affected area dry. Dry, clean skin will heal more quickly.

      If you're experiencing genital itchiness from your warts, try soaking in an oatmeal bath. The "Doctors' Book of Home Remedies for Women" says that over-the-counter oatmeal bath treatments work well. These products generally contain a finely ground colloidal oatmeal that won't clog your drain.

      You could also try castor oil to eliminate your warts associated with HPV. Rub castor oil liberally over the affected area three times a day until the warts are gone, preferably after a bath. Expect results within one month.

      Apple cider vinegar might also be a helpful home remedy. Tear a cotton ball to fit the size of your wart. Soak it in apply cider vinegar and squeeze out the excess liquid. Place the moistened cotton ball on the affected area and use a band-aid to hold it in place. Repeat daily and expect the wart to disappear within one month.

      Take Vitamin A supplements. The "Doctors' Book of Home Remedies for Women" says that evidence exists that Vitamin A can help build up your immune system and help you fight warts.

    When to See a Doctor

    • If your partner has genital warts and you don't yet, see your doctor immediately. After infection, it may still take eight to 18 months before you notice genital warts from HPV. Early diagnosis can keep you from infecting other sexual partners.

      Also, see your doctor if you've had your wart for more than a month, and home remedies haven't been effective. Your doctor may use nitrogen or lasers to get rid of the wart. Also, if you ever have a wart on your face, see a dermatologist immediately, as home remedies are too risky for the face's delicate skin.

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