Human papillomavirus is a fatal virus that causes severe pain that can result in cancer of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and oropharynx or the base of the tongue and tonsils.
It is one of the most common diseases in the United State and other nations.
According to PubMed, over 14 million are diagnosed with cases of Human papillomavirus annually. However, HPV has no cure; though, vaccines are used to prevent the disease.
This article presents some of the common causes of human papillomavirus and the treatment of the virus.
What causes human papillomavirus (HPV)?
HPV is caused by a virus. The virus can spread to anyone through skin contact.
It might be through sexual intercourse or genital contact. There are several causes of human papillomavirus that you need to be aware of.
HPV can infect both males and women who are sexually active. Although the virus can remain dormant and later, infect a new or existing sexual partner.
Sexually active men and women
The fact is, being sexually active is one of the major causes of human papillomavirus.
HPV spread through oral, vaginal, or anal sex. Therefore, any sexual intercourse can lead to the infection of the virus. I beseech you to practice safe sex always.
2. During birth
A newborn can get infected with HPV.
For instance, an infected woman giving birth to an infant may pass the HPV to the baby.
Study shows that HPV can be transmitted during birth to an infant causing genital or respiratory system infections.
For that very reason, appropriate medical attention should be practiced to protect the newborn.
Women are also recommended to give birth to the healthcare center.
Contact with wart
Having personal contact with warts or surfaces where HPV exposure has occurred is one of the causes of human papillomavirus.
The stains of HPV vary, there are some which can cause warts while others can result in cancer.
Always keep off from getting into contact with the HPV strains.
4. Multiple sex partners
Having many sex partners, for instance, one woman having sex with two or three men at the same time or one man having sex with multiple ladies at the same time.
This increases your chances of getting human papillomavirus. You need to avoid this practice.
5. Having sex with someone who has had several intimate partners
This can as well expose you to HPV. You need to do a medical checkup before having sex with a strange partner.
Using a condom or practicing safe sex can also help you stay safe to as you have fun with a strange partner that you may not know his/her sexual history.
6. Weakened immune system
The fact is having a weak immune system makes you susceptible to being infected with HPV.
The weak immune system may be a result of a history of medical treatments such as organ transplants, hormone therapy, or surgery.
Consult with your doctor for assistance in case you have a weak immune system
Related: 36 Natural Foods That Boost Immune System Faster
Having wounded areas
For instance, damaged skin can increase the chances of being infected with HPV.
For that reason, nurse any damaged area of the skin to prevent the virus. Prevention is better than cure, take time to seek medical attention for any wound.
Use of sex drugs
Sex drugs may cause, flushing, headaches, visual changes, upset stomach, nasal congestion, and other chronic illness like cancer.
This reduces your immune system therefore; HPV finds a leeway in the body.
In addition, sex drugs can lead to vigorous sex that might result in injuries to the reproductive system of both males and females.
A Study in PubMed shows that sex drugs are one of the causes of human papillomavirus that you need to avoid.
Use prescribes sex drugs only if you are suffering from erectile dysfunction and have advice from the doctor.
Lack of a balanced diet
A balanced diet helps boost your immune system. A healthy diet contains antioxidants, anti-inflammation, and anticancer properties that help fight off HPV infections.
Lack of a well-balanced diet reduces the body’s immune system, thereby not being able to defend the body against infections and other toxins.
For better health, avoid processed foods, trans fat, saturated fats, and refined flour, as they increase your chances of getting HPV and other chronic illnesses.
Having other STDs
Sexually transmitted diseases like syphilis lower your immune system and this can lead to HPV.
Get medical treatments in case you have other related STDs that may worsen or increase the risk of being infected with HPV.
Related: How To Prevent Human Papillomavirus
What are the Symptoms of HPV?
The truth is, HPV symptoms may not appear immediately, nevertheless, the signs can be seen years later.
It is important to note that some HPV types can cause warts, while others can result in cancer.
However, it can take years for HPV to result in cancer.
Types of warts
There are three types of warts. They include:
- Common warts
- Plantar warts
- Flat warts
Signs of warts
- a small bump
- a cluster of bumps, or stem-like protrusions
- as flat-topped, slightly raised lesions that are darker than normal skin color
- hard, grainy growths on the feet
- Cauliflower shaped and may be white or flesh tone.
Treatments of human papillomavirus (HPV)
Too bad that there is no treatment for HPV, However, prevention is through the HPV vaccine is available.
Other medication such as over-the-counter (OTC) salicylic acid treats common warts.
Here are some of the prescribed medications:
- Podophyllin (chemical applied by a doctor)
- Imiquimod (Aldara, Zyclara)
- Podofilox (Condylox)
- Trichloroacetic acid (chemical applied by a doctor)
Other interventions may include:
- Laser therapy
- Cryotherapy
- Electrocautery
- Interferon injection
- Surgical removal
Note: always consult with your doctor regarding the most effective treatment.
In addition, warts and cell abnormalities may be treated; however, the virus can remain in the body for several years.
For that reason, HPV can still be passed to another person.
There are three vaccinations that can be used to prevent HPV. They include:
- Pap smear
- DNA test
- Use of acetic acid (vinegar)
Takeaway
The causes of human papillomavirus are preventable; therefore, seek medical attention as early as possible.
The virus is very disastrous and has no cure; practicing safe sex, healthy diet, and avoiding multiple sex partners are all you need to do.
A doctor’s support is very important; ensure you consult with your doctor for the best treatment.