splinter under my nail. OW!

[rabid_child]

I just got totally frustrating walking down the weed covered path in the alley next to my house to get to my trash can, so i pulled out all the weeds that were blocking my way, and in the process, got a splinter under my right hand pointer finger nail. I cut back my fingernail as far as was humanely possible and got out a big chunk of wood, but it still looks like there's something in there. I tried with a needle to get it out and I can't, and I'm right handed so it makes it even more difficult to try to do. My finger hurts like crazy now after the splinter, then being dug at.

Anyone have any ideas as to what to do at this point? Assuming it is impossible to get the rest of this out, is it going to just eventually work its way out? Should I go to health services on Tuesday when it reopens and have them look at it? I had a recent tetunus shot, so thats of no concern.

Current game plan
-- Soak it in warm water
-- Try to get as much neosporin into the area as possible
-- Bandaid

Suggestions or revisions appreciated.

[Formerbaboon]

I got one of those when I was 7. My grandpa ended up having to cut off half my fingernail! It grew back though. Good luck.

[ChewyToffeeMan]

Ow! Ow! Ow! Had one of those, the doc just pulled it out in on go. Nearly fainted. Ow! Ow! Ow!

I would continue soaking in luke warm water. If it doesn't come out it will at least soften the area. There is also the possibility that the feeling of something still in thre is a little swelling from the original injury. But you are right in assuming it's a waiting game to see what happens next. Don't wait too long though!! Good luck.

[Brandon]

OUCH!!! I've had one there too. I pretty much had to let it work its way out, as I couldn't afford a doctor visit. Be gentle with your finger, and don't do too much "home surgery" on it (like I did).

Aspirin/Ibuprofen/whatever is your friend.

[rabid_child]

I am really annoyed, again, at UAlbany, as I realized last night that though I authorized $500 be taken from my loan money two months ago (and it was taken) for my supplimentary health insurance (so I can see docs outside of health services, go to the ER, etc...), I have heard nothing back about it! I don't have an insurance card or anything. What would happen if I had a REAL emergency?? I'd be screwed.

Last night my finger was swollen/red/hot/throbbing. I iced it and kept it elevated all night, and its much better this morning. It doesn't look like there's anything under my nail anymore. I'm going to get some fingertip bandaids after I go to the gym, and try to figure out who to call about my health insurance!?

[thebelovedtree]

That sucks, I had that happen in woodshop while I was in middle school and the dr. had to cut off half of my thumb nail to remove the splinter. I'm glad you were able to get it all out, and keep all your fingernails.