How to treat a painful skin wart on my finger that has been there for 20 days?

Question #29129

13 days ago

How to treat a painful skin wart on my finger that has been there for 20 days? - #29129

Client_0027a4

I have skin wart on right hand finger fron past 20 days. It is skin coloured with reddish appearance with little pain

How would you describe the pain from the wart?:

- Mild — just noticeable

Have you noticed any changes in the wart since it appeared?:

- It has grown larger

Have you tried any treatments for the wart before?:

- No, this is the first time seeking help

Do you have any other skin conditions or health issues?:

- No, I'm generally healthy

Is the wart located in an area that gets a lot of friction?:

- No, it's in a less active area

Have you noticed any other symptoms with the wart?:

- No, just the wart

300 INR (~3.53 USD)

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Doctors' responses

Dr. Arsha K Isac

I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.

12 days ago

Hello
A painful wart on the finger for 20 days that is slowly getting bigger is most likely a common viral wart called Common wart caused by Human papillomavirus. This is a very common and usually harmless condition.
Treatment can start at home by applying salicylic acid wart solution or gel once daily after soaking the finger in warm water for 5–10 minutes and gently filing the surface; continue this for 4–6 weeks because warts take time to shrink. Avoid picking or cutting the wart, and keep the area clean and dry. If pain increases, the wart grows rapidly, bleeds, spreads, or does not improve after about 6–8 weeks, then a doctor can remove it using procedures like freezing (cryotherapy), which is quick and effective.
Since this has been present only 20 days and pain is mild, this is a routine condition and usually manageable with simple treatment.

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Dr. Nikhil Chauhan

I am currently working as a urologist and kidney transplant surgeon at Graphic Era Medical College & Hospital, Dehradun. It's a role that keeps me on my toes, honestly. I handle a pretty wide range of urology cases—stones, prostate issues, urinary tract obstructions, infections, you name it. Some are straightforward, others way more complex than you expect at first glance. Every patient walks in with a different story and that’s what keeps the work real for me. Kidney transplant surgery, though, that’s a whole different zone. You’re not just working on anatomy—you’re dealing with timelines, matching, medications, family dynamics, emotional pressure... and yeah, very precise coordination. I’m part of a team that manages the entire transplant process—from evaluation to surgery to post-op care. Not gonna lie, it’s intense. But seeing someone who’s been on dialysis for years finally get a new shot at life—there’s nothing really like that feeling. In the OR, I’m detail-focused. Outside of it, I try to stay accessible—patients don’t always need answers right away, sometimes they just need to feel heard. I believe in walking them through what’s going on rather than just giving reports and instructions. Especially in transplant cases, trust matters. And clear, honest conversation helps build that. Urology itself is such a misunderstood field sometimes. People ignore symptoms for years because it feels “awkward” or they think it’s not serious until it becomes unmanageable. I’ve had patients who came in late just because they were embarassed to talk about urine flow or testicular pain. That’s why I also try to make the space judgment-free—like whatever it is, we’ll figure it out. At the end of the day, whether I’m scrubbing in for surgery or doing OPD rounds, I just want to make sure what I do *actually* helps. That the effort’s not wasted. And yeah, some days are frustrating—some procedures don’t go clean, some recoveries take longer than they should—but I keep showing up, cause the work’s worth doing. Always is.

12 days ago

Hi there 👋
This is Dr. Nikhil Chauhan. That painful, growing wart on your finger needs attention – let’s act fast.
🔍 What you likely have
· Common wart (verruca vulgaris) – caused by HPV.
· Reddish + growing + mild pain = active inflammation – good time to treat.
✅ What to do now (at home)
1. OTC salicylic acid 17% (gel or patch) – apply daily after soaking finger in warm water.
2. Cover with waterproof bandage – stops spread and irritation.
3. File gently with disposable emery board (only the white, dead part – never until bleeding).
4. Do NOT pick, cut, or burn it at home – that spreads the virus.
🧊 If no improvement in 2–3 weeks
· See a dermatologist for cryotherapy (freezing) – quick, effective for growing warts.
🚫 Prevent spread
· Don’t touch your face/genitals after touching the wart.
· Wash hands thoroughly.
· Keep separate towel for that hand.
💡 Good news
· 20 days is early – most warts resolve with consistent treatment in 4–8 weeks.
· Your healthy immune system helps.
Start salicylic acid today. Be patient. You’ll beat it. 🌟
— Dr. Nikhil Chauhan

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Dr. Aarav Deshmukh

I am a general physician with 8 years of practice, mostly in urban clinics and semi-rural setups. I began working right after MBBS in a govt hospital in Kerala, and wow — first few months were chaotic, not gonna lie. Since then, I’ve seen 1000s of patients with all kinds of cases — fevers, uncontrolled diabetes, asthma, infections, you name it. I usually work with working-class patients, and that changed how I treat — people don’t always have time or money for fancy tests, so I focus on smart clinical diagnosis and practical treatment. Over time, I’ve developed an interest in preventive care — like helping young adults with early metabolic issues. I also counsel a lot on diet, sleep, and stress — more than half the problems start there anyway. I did a certification in evidence-based practice last year, and I keep learning stuff online. I’m not perfect (nobody is), but I care. I show up, I listen, I adjust when I’m wrong. Every patient needs something slightly different. That’s what keeps this work alive for me.

11 days ago

Skin warts, especially on fingers, could be caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), and can sometimes range from painless to a bit uncomfortable or painful, which seems to be the case for you. For home treatment, an over-the-counter topical option containing salicylic acid might be useful. Apply it consistently as directed on the product. It softens the wart, making it easier to remove. Make sure to soak the area first in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to soften the skin before applying the treatment. However, if the pain worsens or the appearance of the wart changes, consulting a doctor would be a good next step. They might consider options like cryotherapy (freezing the wart), laser treatment, or other medical interventions. Avoid picking at it, as that could lead to infection or spreading. Keep the area clean and dry but avoid excessive moisture, which can encourage warts to extend. Also, try not to touch the wart too much, especially before touching other areas of your skin, to prevent it from spreading. If over-the-counter treatments don’t seem effective after a few weeks, or if the wart becomes more painful or swollen, it might be time to consult with a healthcare provider. They offer treatments such as cryotherapy or other options that might be more effective based on your specific case.

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Dr. Bharat Joshi

I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.

12 days ago

Hello dear
See it can be common wart ( hpv or human papiloma virus infection)
There can be chances of dermoid cyst or fibroma
I suggest you to please get followings tests done and share result with pathologist in person for better clarity and for safety please donot take any medication without consulting the concerned physician
CBC
Esr
Biopsy
Culture
Fnac if recommended by pathologist
Hand USG
Regards

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Dr. Prasannajeet Singh Shekhawat

I am a 2023 batch passout and working as a general physician right now, based in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Still kinda new in the bigger picture maybe, but honestly—every single day in this line teaches you more than textbooks ever could. I’ve had the chance to work under some pretty respected doctors during and after my graduation, not just for the clinical part but also to see how they handle people, real people, in pain, in panic, and sometimes just confused about their own health. General medicine covers a lot, right? Like from the smallest complaints to those random, vague symptoms that no one really understands at first—those are kinda my zone now. I don’t really rush to label things, I try to spend time actually listening. Feels weird to say it but ya, I do take that part seriously. Some patients just need someone to hear the whole story instead of jumping to prescription pads after 30 seconds. Right now, my practice includes everything from managing common infections, blood pressure issues, sugar problems to more layered cases where symptoms overlap and you gotta just... piece things together. It's not glamorous all the time, but it's real. I’ve handled a bunch of seasonal disease waves too, like dengue surges and viral fevers that hit rural belts hard—Hanumangarh doesn’t get much spotlight but there’s plenty happening out here. Also, I do rely on basics—thorough history, solid clinical exam and yeah when needed, investigations. But not over-prescribing things just cz they’re there. One thing I picked up from the senior consultants I worked with—they used to say “don’t chase labs, chase the patient’s story”... stuck with me till now. Anyway, still learning every single day tbh. But I like that. Keeps me grounded and kind of obsessed with trying to get better.

12 days ago

Hello
Thanks for describing your wart. A skin-colored, mildly painful wart with a reddish appearance that’s grown larger over 20 days is most likely a common viral wart (caused by the human papillomavirus, HPV). These are usually harmless but can be annoying, especially if they grow or become painful.
What you can do:
- Avoid picking or scratching the wart, as this can spread the virus.
- Keep the area clean and dry.
- You can try over-the-counter wart removal treatments (like salicylic acid), but check with a doctor before starting, especially since it’s growing and has some pain.
- Cover the wart with a bandage if it’s getting irritated.
When to see a doctor:
- If the wart keeps growing, becomes very painful, changes color, or starts bleeding.
- If you notice more warts appearing.
- If you have any immune system problems or diabetes.
A dermatologist can freeze, burn, or remove the wart if needed. Most warts eventually go away on their own, but since yours is growing and has mild pain, it’s a good idea to get it checked soon.
Thank you

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Dr. Shayeque Reza

I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.

11 days ago

Your description is most consistent with a common viral wart (caused by Human papillomavirus), which is a benign skin growth and not dangerous, especially since it is small, mildly painful, and has developed over a short period. These warts can slowly increase in size and may persist if untreated, but they are very manageable. You can start with over-the-counter treatments like salicylic acid preparations, which gradually remove the wart layer by layer, or consider medical options such as cryotherapy (freezing) if it does not improve. Avoid picking or cutting it, as this can spread the virus or cause infection. Overall, this is a common and treatable condition, and with proper care, it usually resolves without complications.

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Dr. Alan Reji

I'm Dr. Alan Reji, a general dentist with a deep-rooted passion for helping people achieve lasting oral health while making dental visits feel less intimidating. I graduated from Pushpagiri College of Dental Sciences (batch of 2018), and ever since, I've been committed to offering high-quality care that balances both advanced clinical knowledge and genuine compassion for my patients. Starting Dent To Smile here in Palakkad wasn’t just about opening a clinic—it was really about creating a space where people feel relaxed the moment they walk in. Dental care can feel cold or overly clinical, and I’ve always wanted to change that. So I focused on making it warm, easygoing, and centered completely around you. I mix new-age tech with some good old-fashioned values—really listening, explaining stuff without jargon, and making sure you feel involved, not just treated. From regular cleanings to fillings or even cosmetic work, I try my best to keep things smooth and stress-free. No hidden steps. No last-minute surprises. I have a strong interest in patient education and preventive dentistry. I genuinely believe most dental issues can be caught early—or even avoided—when patients are given the right information at the right time. That’s why I take time to talk, not just treat. Helping people understand why something’s happening is as important to me as treating what’s happening. At my practice, I’ve made it a point to stay current with the latest innovations—digital diagnostics, minimally invasive techniques, and smart scheduling that respects people’s time. I also try to make my services accessible and affordable, because good dental care shouldn’t be out of reach for anyone.

10 days ago

This sounds like a common wart (verruca), which is caused by a virus and is usually harmless, though it can slowly grow and sometimes become slightly painful. Many warts go away on their own, but you can treat it with over-the-counter options like salicylic acid solutions or wart patches, applied regularly for a few weeks, while avoiding picking or cutting it. If it keeps growing, becomes painful, or doesn’t improve, consult a dermatologist for treatments like cryotherapy (freezing), which works quickly and safely.

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Dr. Nirav Jain

I am a qualified medical doctor with MBBS and DNB Diploma in Family Medicine from NBEMS, and my work has always been centered on treating patients in a complete, not just symptom based way. During my DNB training I rotated through almost every core department—Internal medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Surgery, Orthopedics, ENT, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Emergency medicine. That mix gave me the skill to manage acute illness, long term disease and preventive care together, something I find very important in family practice. In psychiatry I worked closely with patients who struggled with depression, anxiety, stress related problems, insomnia or substance use. I learned not just about medication but also about simple psychotherapy tools, psycho education and how to talk openly without judgement. I still use that exp in family medicine, specially when chronic disease patients also face mental health issues. My time in General surgery included assisting in minor and major procedures, managing wounds, abscess, sutures and emergencies. While I am not a surgeon, this gave me confidence to recognize surgical cases early, provide first line care and refer fast when needed, which makes a big difference in online or OPD settings. Now I work as a consultant in General medicine and Family practice, with focus on both in-person and online consultation. I treat conditions like fever, infections, gastrointestinal complaints, respiratory illness, and also manage diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and lifestyle related chronic diseases. I see women for PCOS, contraception counseling, menstrual health, and children for common pediatric issues. I also dedicate time to preventive health, lifestyle counseling and diet-sleep-exercise advice, since these small changes affect long term wellness more than we often realize. My key skills include holistic diagnosis, evidence based treatment, chronic disease management, mental health support, preventive medicine and telemedicine communiation. At the center of all this is one thing—patients should feel heard, safe, and guided with care that is both professional and personal.

6 days ago

Hello, thank you for sharing your concern. Your skin issue needs a visual inspection by a certified dermatologist/ family medicine specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment planning. So kindly consult one online/offline. It’s impossible to diagnose and treat perfect by just chat description.
Feel free to reach out again.
Regards,
Dr. Nirav Jain
MBBS, D.Fam.Medicine

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