Caleb Foster
Splinters are foreign bodies that get embedded under the skin and can be extremely painful. While most splinters can be removed at home, some may require medical attention. If a splinter is deeply embedded under the skin, especially under a fingernail or toenail, it might be impossible to remove at home and may require a doctor's visit. Doctors have specialised tools and techniques to remove such splinters, including the use of local anaesthesia, sterilised needles, and surgical incisions. In some cases, a portion of the nail may need to be removed to access the splinter.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of doctor | Physician, pediatrician, or family doctor |
| When to see a doctor | If the splinter is deep under the nail, has become infected, or is causing serious and excessive bleeding |
| Removal process | The doctor may remove a portion of the nail to allow for the splinter's removal, use ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to locate the splinter, and clean the area to prevent infection |
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What You'll Learn
When to remove at home vs. when to see a doctor
Most splinters can be removed at home, but some require medical intervention. Here are some guidelines on when to remove a splinter at home and when to seek medical help:
When to Remove at Home
Splinters that are partially or fully embedded in the skin can often be removed at home. If the splinter is near the skin's surface and not causing pain, it can sometimes be left alone, as natural skin shedding will eventually remove it. However, if removal is desired, it can often be done at home if the splinter is not too deep and has not entered the skin near the eye or under a fingernail or toenail.
For small, easy-to-access splinters, tweezers can be used to pinch and pull out the splinter. It is important to sterilize the tweezers with rubbing alcohol and to pull the splinter out in the same direction it went in. If part of the splinter is sticking out, a needle sterilized with rubbing alcohol can be used to bring the splinter to the surface, and then tweezers can be used to fully remove it.
Other at-home methods include using sticky tape, such as duct tape, to remove smaller, less invasive splinters, or using a solution of Epsom salt and warm water to help pull out the splinter.
When to See a Doctor
If the splinter is deep, has entered the skin vertically or near the eye or under a nail, or if there are signs of infection, it is best to seek medical help. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, pain, warmth, tenderness, skin discoloration, and discharge (pus). If the splinter has broken during attempts to remove it or if it has been in the skin for a long time without working its way out, it is also advisable to see a doctor.
Doctors have additional tools and techniques to remove splinters safely and effectively, such as using a scalpel to remove the inflamed area or a carbon dioxide laser to vaporize part of the nail plate. They can also prescribe antibiotics and other treatments to address infections and prevent complications.
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How to remove a splinter at home
It is important to remove a splinter as soon as possible to prevent infection. Most splinters can be removed at home, but if the splinter is deep, infected, or under the nail, it may need to be removed by a medical professional. Doctors may use tools such as a scalpel or stitches to remove and treat the affected area.
If you decide to remove a splinter at home, here are some methods you can try:
Wash the Area
Before attempting to remove the splinter, wash your hands and the affected area with soap and water. This will help prevent infection.
Use Tweezers
If part of the splinter is sticking out of your skin, you can use tweezers to grab the end and pull it out along the direction it entered. Make sure to sterilize the tweezers with rubbing alcohol before use.
Needle and Tweezers
If the splinter is fully embedded in the skin, you can use a needle and tweezers. First, sterilize the needle and tweezers with rubbing alcohol. Then, use the needle to gently puncture the skin over the part of the splinter closest to the surface. Next, use the tweezers to pinch the splinter and pull it out gently and slowly.
Duct Tape
You can also try using duct tape to remove a splinter. Place the tape over the affected area and lift gently.
Epsom Salts
Dissolve a cup of Epsom salt in warm water and soak the affected area. This can help to draw out the splinter.
Fruits and Vegetables
Surprisingly, certain fruits and vegetables can help remove splinters. Cut a small slice of onion, potato, or banana peel and use a band-aid to secure it to the skin. After a day or overnight, the splinter should be closer to the surface.
Remember, if you are unable to remove the splinter at home or notice any signs of infection, seek medical help.
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Removing a splinter under the nail
Splinters are "'foreign bodies'" that get embedded under the skin. While most splinters can be removed at home, deep splinters or those under the fingernail or toenail may require a doctor's visit. In some cases, a doctor may have to remove part of the nail to completely remove the splinter.
When to See a Doctor
If the splinter is deep under your nail, has become infected, or is causing excessive bleeding, it is best to seek medical help. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, pain, and discharge around the affected area.
If you choose to remove the splinter yourself, there are several methods you can try. Firstly, determine if any part of the splinter is exposed above the skin. If so, sterilize a pair of tweezers with rubbing alcohol or boiling water, then use them to grab and pull out the splinter in the same direction it went in.
If the splinter is fully embedded in your skin, you can use a sterilized needle to help bring it to the surface. Pierce your skin right underneath one end of the splinter and slowly coax it out. Once part of the splinter is sticking out, use tweezers to pull it out completely.
Alternatively, you can try using duct tape to remove the splinter. Cover the affected area with duct tape, leave it on for 30 minutes, then slowly peel it off in the opposite direction of how the splinter entered your skin.
To prevent infection and promote healing, be sure to wash your hands and the area around the splinter before and after attempting to remove it. You can also apply antibiotic ointment or Vaseline and cover the area with a bandage after removing the splinter.
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What to do after removing a splinter
In most cases, a splinter can be removed at home and does not require medical intervention. However, if the splinter is deeply embedded, especially under the fingernail or toenail, it is recommended to seek professional help from a doctor. Physicians may have to remove a portion of the nail to ensure the complete removal of the splinter.
Now, onto what to do after removing a splinter. Here are some detailed steps to follow:
Wash and Clean the Affected Area
It is important to wash your hands and the area around the splinter with soap and water. This helps prevent infection by reducing the number of germs on the skin.
Apply Antibiotic Ointment or Cream
Once the area is clean and dry, apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment or cream to the affected area. This will help prevent infection and promote healing. You can use over-the-counter antibiotic ointments or creams, or you can ask your pharmacist for recommendations.
Cover the Wound with a Bandage
After applying the ointment or cream, cover the area with a sterile bandage. This will keep the wound clean and protected from further irritation. Change the bandage anytime it gets wet or dirty.
Monitor for Signs of Infection
Even after removing the splinter, it is important to monitor the area for any signs of infection. These signs can include redness, swelling, warmth, tenderness, or the presence of pus. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a medical professional as soon as possible.
Consider a Tetanus Shot
If the splinter wound is deep or if your tetanus immunization is not up to date, consider getting a tetanus shot. This will help prevent a potentially serious infection.
Remember, if you are unable to remove the splinter successfully or if it is located in a sensitive area, such as under the fingernail, it is always best to seek medical advice from a doctor or healthcare professional. They have the necessary tools and expertise to safely and effectively remove the splinter and provide appropriate aftercare instructions.
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Types of splinters and their risks
Splinters are foreign bodies that are partially or fully embedded in the skin. They are usually a result of handling objects made of wood, metal, glass, or plastic. While most splinters can be removed at home, some may require medical attention.
Wood Splinters
Wood splinters are a type of biological foreign body that can cause inflammation, making the affected area red, swollen, warm, and painful. They are commonly found in the fingers and toes and can usually be removed at home. However, if the splinter is deeply embedded or lodged under a fingernail or toenail, medical attention may be necessary. Wood splinters are highly inflammatory and can lead to infections if not removed promptly.
Metal Splinters
Metal splinters can be detected using X-rays, which can identify metals such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, or tin. Metal splinters are considered relatively inert and are less likely to cause inflammation or infection compared to other types of splinters. However, they can still pose a risk if left unattended or if they penetrate vital areas.
Glass Splinters
Glass splinters can also be detected using X-rays, although they may not always be visible. Glass is considered a relatively inert material and is less likely to cause inflammation or infection. However, glass splinters can be challenging to remove, especially if they are deeply embedded or lodged in sensitive areas.
Plastic Splinters
Plastic splinters are another type of foreign body that can be challenging to detect and remove. While plastic is generally inert and less inflammatory, it can still cause infections if left unattended. Plastic splinters may require medical attention, especially if they are deeply embedded or located in sensitive areas.
It's important to note that the risks associated with splinters include infection, inflammation, and, in rare cases, more severe reactions or infections. If a splinter is not removed promptly or properly, it can lead to increased pain, redness, swelling, and discharge. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical attention if a splinter is deeply embedded, lodged under a nail, or if there are signs of infection or difficulty in removal.
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Frequently asked questions
You should see your family doctor to remove a splinter under your nail. If the splinter is deep under your nail or has become infected, your doctor may refer you to a specialist.
Signs of an infected splinter include pain, redness, swelling, and pus in the area around the splinter. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
It is generally not recommended to remove a splinter under your nail at home due to the risk of infection and difficulty in accessing the splinter. However, if you choose to do so, you can try using a needle to expose a portion of the splinter and then grip it with tweezers. It is important to sterilize the needle and wash your hands and the affected area before attempting removal.
