Warts are small, rough skin growths caused by viruses in the human papillomavirus (HPV) family. While many people associate warts with direct skin contact or contaminated surfaces, other lesser-known factors can contribute to their development. Understanding these causes can give greater insight into why some individuals are more prone to warts than others. Here are some unexpected causes of warts you might not know:

A Weakened Immune System  

A strong immune system acts as the body’s defense against viruses, including those that lead to warts. People with a suppressed or weakened immune system may become more susceptible to infections. Certain health conditions, medications, or prolonged periods of stress can compromise immune function. For example, individuals undergoing chemotherapy, living with autoimmune disorders, or taking immunosuppressive drugs may be more prone to developing warts. A strong immune system can help diminish the likelihood of developing them after being exposed.

Raw Meat  

If you work in the food industry or prepare large amounts of food at home, you may know that handling raw meat or fish can contribute to the development of warts. The frequent contact between your hands and raw animal products may make you more susceptible. Certain strains of HPV can enter through minor cuts or nicks on the skin, which are common when handling raw meat or cleaning fish. Wearing protective gloves or practicing good hand hygiene can lower the chances of developing them in such scenarios.

Nail Biting

For those who bite their nails, this habit carries risks. Warts can form around the nail beds and fingertips. When HPV comes into contact with broken skin, such as from nail-biting, it has a more significant opportunity to take hold and cause an infection.  

Fingernail-biting introduces fissures or tiny tears in the skin, creating an easier path for HPV. In addition, touching your mouth frequently during this habit may expose you to HPV on surfaces like doorknobs or other shared objects. Breaking the nail-biting habit can be challenging, but it’s worth considering if you’re trying to limit your risk of developing warts.

Vitamin B Deficiency  

Vitamin deficiencies can influence the health of your skin, hair, and nails. While there’s no direct evidence that a lack of vitamins causes warts, some studies suggest that a vitamin B deficiency may affect an individual’s susceptibility to viral infections.  Vitamin B, particularly B6 and B12, helps support overall immune function.

A diet lacking these essential nutrients may leave your immune system less prepared to combat intruders like HPV. Consuming foods rich in B vitamins, such as eggs, poultry, fish, and leafy green vegetables, can support your body in maintaining better health overall. While it won’t guarantee you’ll avoid warts, it may bolster your defenses against a potential infection.

Rare Conditions Like WHIM Syndrome  

Rare conditions like WHIM syndrome can increase the risk of developing warts. WHIM syndrome (warts, hypogammaglobulinemia, infections, and myelokathexis) is a disorder that affects the immune system, making individuals more prone to HPV-related growths. While these conditions are uncommon, they highlight how unique factors can predispose someone to warts beyond ordinary circumstances.

Seek a Specialist to Remove Warts 

Warts are often considered a common and relatively minor skin issue, but their underlying causes can be more varied than most people realize. From immune system challenges to basic lifestyle habits like handling meat or biting your nails, these factors can all contribute to the development of warts. Supporting your immune system, or trying to break certain habits, making small changes can make a significant difference. Consult with a dermatologist for persistent or recurring warts. They can provide tailored advice or treatment options to help address the condition effectively.

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