Suggest Treatment For Skin Pierced With Small Invisible Splinter

Posted on Tue, 19 Sep 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 19 Sep 2017 Answered on

Wed, 11 Oct 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello. I handled some wood a couple hours ago and my finger came in contact with an edge. How can I tell if I have splinter? The skin isn't broken. No bleeding. Nothing is sticking out. But feel a rough edge. Not sure if it is scratch or a splinter. Can you help?

I sent a picture. Can you tell if there is a splinter and/or infection in middle finger?

Answered by Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel (46 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Possibility of tiny splinter likely .

Detailed Answer:
Hello dear

Thanks for using Healthcaremagic.com
I have evaluated your query thoroughly with attached photograph of the middle finger .

* There is possibility of very tiny splinter though it may not be present .

Reasons to support that are
- Feeling of rough edge .
- It does not require noticeable breaking of skin .
- Usually very tiny splinter does not give bleeding .

* There is no infection present right now , only minor level subcutaneous changes
noticeable with magnified view .

* Recommendations at present

- Immerse finger in bowl filled with lukewarm water 5 minutes each 3 - 4 times
a day , by which the skin will become smooth , even if tiny splinter is present
it will come out with ease .

Hope this will help you for sure .
Welcome for further assistance .

Regards .

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel (31 minutes later)

Could it just be a scratch rather than a splinter?

If a splinter, should I go see a doctor to get it removed? Can a doctor on physical exam tel for sure if a tiny splinter? By looking at or touching the area?

Answered by Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel (50 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It can be a scratch also,only confirmation is physical examination .

Detailed Answer:
Hi welcome

* As I already told there is possibility of splinter , can also be a scratch only .
Feeling rough edge is only matter of concern .

* But as there is no pain of severe intensity , can see for some hours by just
doing warm water therapy .

* For confirmation can sure visit doctor , he can judge better with in person
examination and magnifying glass for direct evaluation .

Wishing you fine recovery .
Regards .

Note: For further inquiries on surgery procedure and its risks or complications book an appointment now

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana