I have a really deep splinter

[SandyM]

I don't mean to be an alarmist, but I'd be worried about the risk of infection.

I'd go see a doctor.

[LaraW]

This morning while doing errands I went to the recycling center. While I was there I got a splinter under my fingernail :eek: I thought I pulled it all out,but when I got home I realized that it had broken off and there is still some of the splinter under my fingernail.

Its maybe 1/8 inch long, along the side of my ring fingernail on my left hand. I am soaking my finger in warm water, and have been trying to get to it with a needle, but is this something I need to see a doctor about? It is REALLY sore!

The problem is that it seems to be out of reach, as it is below the white part of my nail.

any thoughts?

[tbb113]

If it is hurting you or you feel a doctor should look at it, by all means go. I know when my children have gotten splinters in the past, the nurses have told me to leave it be, soak it in warm water and it will eventually work its way out. You don't need to dig them out ....

Tyra

[LaraW]

Well, I did go ahead and make an appt. It is really sore, to the point where I can't really do that much with my left hand without bothering it.

I guess this is just an extra-sensitive area - even typing is irritating it.

[sharris315]

I think you've made the right choice. Why take the chance? I agree with Sandy--there is an infection risk, especially considering where you got it. And, if your tetanus protection needs upping, then that will be done, too.

Good luck...

Shar

[HeatherTx]

I agree with going to the dr. My stubborn DH got a very deep splinter in the pad of his index finger when we were camping last year. He wouldn't go to the dr. and it finally became infected. Not pretty. Let us know what they said! Hope it feels better soon!!!

[LaraW]

All better! :D

My finger is still pretty numb, but that sucker was huge! He said that it will probably be sore for a day or so, but that it should feel better pretty soon.

[sharris315]

I love a happy ending...:)

Shar

[MrsReber]

I'm a little late checking in here, but I'm glad you went to the doctor! I had a deep splinter when I was about 8. I sat on a wooden merry go round thing at the playground and it went right into the back of my leg. I thought I had gotten it all, but months later, I developed a large blue-ish bump on my leg. I was taken to the doctor and he removed a HUGE peice of wood! It was over an inch long. Ouch! And it was infected. Not fun. The spot really hurt and I had to take antibiotics. I'll never forget it, though! I'm very careful about splinters now.