Splinters are not only painful but can also cause infections. These tiny nuisances can make working or walking painful and uncomfortable. When you have an accident that causes a little object to enter your skin, you need to get rid of it as soon as possible. However, it is advisable to find the best method to work it out instead of hurrying and causing yourself more harm.
There are many ways to get a splinter out of your finger, hand, foot, etc. You can use any convenient method for you. Some of the splinter removal solutions may take longer, while the quickest ones may be more painful. In this article, you will learn four tips to remove deeply-embedded splinters.
First, you must understand that splinters buried deep in the skin need slow action to remove. Do not just squeeze and try to take it out hurriedly because you may cause more harm to yourself. To remove the splinter, you need to be careful. You might also need a medical expert's help in some cases.
Follow these four tips when removing splinters from deep inside the skin or flesh.
1. Use a Splinter Remover Tool
Before you begin the splinter removal process, ensure you clean the wound with distilled water and mild soap. You can also use alcohol to help kill any bacteria or germs that may cause infections on your skin.
Cleaning the wound will help you to see how deep the splinter is. Do not put pressure on the area when doing so, even if you see blood dripping out. By applying pressure, you would make the condition worse.
If the wound is not too large and there is no bleeding, you can use hydrogen peroxide or an antiseptic spray on it as well. It will denature all germs before removing the splinter from your skin or flesh.
Wondering how to get a splinter out using a splinter remover tool? Well, depending on the depth of the splinter, use a sterile splinter remover to open up the wound, allowing you easy access. A suitable tool would allow you easy access to pull it out effortlessly. After removing the bit, treat the area and dispose of the tool.
2. Duct Tape
Applying duct tape can help you remove a splinter buried deep into the flesh or skin. If you can see its outline on your skin, it will be easier to remove. Covering with duct tape is also a good idea for minor wounds that do not bleed much and where germs or bacteria may not enter.
However, if there are still chances that infection could enter even though you cover up the wound with duct tape, you should go and see a doctor.
When deep, duct tape can be your answer to annoying splinters. But it may take some time before it comes out. First, cut a piece of duct tape slightly larger than the size of the wound. Place the adhesive part on top of the splinter and gently press it.
Wait for about an hour before removing it. Then, pull the tape slowly and see if the splinter comes out with it. If not, repeat this process until you succeed.
Make sure that when you remove the duct tape, there is no adhesive left on the wound. Clean it again and apply antiseptic.
If you cannot see the shape of the splinter, use a cotton bud soaked with hydrogen peroxide to clean the area before you place a piece of duct tape on it.
3. Apply Baking Soda
In the absence of a splinter remover tool, there is no better choice than baking soda. It will help kill bacteria or germs that may be in the affected area and provide relief.
How do you use it? You need to make sure your hands are clean while using this method. Make a paste with water and baking soda and apply it to the injured skin. Let it dry for a few minutes before removing it gently with tweezers or your fingers.
The baking soda will relieve you of the pain, reduce inflammation and swelling, and prevent infections that might occur if you do not remove the splinter properly. It is beneficial to use this method if the object is not too deep and there is no bleeding.
4. Consult a doctor
Sometimes, you may not succeed in removing the splinter at home. If you have a problem accessing it, you might need a medical expert's help. Also, if there is too much pain or bleeding, you should not try to extract the splinter at home.
The size of the splinter or wound may also prompt you to seek medical help. When you have too much bleeding, don't try to remove the splinter by yourself. Doing so could worsen your condition.
Disinfect and cover the wound with a piece of cloth, bandage, or any other suitable material that will help in protecting it against germs and dust. But you must ensure you receive attention as soon as possible.
The doctor will examine the wound and advise on the severity. When they cannot have quick access to the splinter, you may need some form of surgery to open up the wound a little for successful removal.
Doctors might advise you to go through some processes in severe cases, like receiving a tetanus injection. Your doctor might also give you anesthesia so they can pull out the splinter without causing pain.
You might not require a stitch or bandage after the process, but the doctor will prescribe some antibiotics and pain relievers. The medication will help prevent infection and alleviate pain.
Conclusion
Experiencing accidents while working with sharp objects is common. There is no need to panic when you have a splinter. Several methods can help you remove it at home. If you cannot access the right tools or experience bleeding and pain, a doctor will help you. It is also imperative to wear protective gear when working or playing to avoid such accidents.