About Splinters
If you've ever run your hand across an old porch railing, chances are you got yourself a splinter. Splinters are small fragments of material that become lodged beneath the skin. And for such small bits of material, they can cause a lot of damage. If splinters aren't removed properly, they can become infected and have to be surgically removed.
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Types
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Although wood splinters are most common, plastic, metal or even glass fragments of material that becoming embedded beneath the skin can be splinters. Splinters can either be completely embedded in the skin, or partially embedded. Partially embedded splinters are easier to remove because there is a tag of material left above the skins surface that can be grasped for removal. Completely embedded splinters, also called deep splinters, often require an incision in the skin to be made by a doctor so that the splinter can be fully removed.
Geography
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Splinters are most commonly found on the palms of the hands and on the soles of the feet. This is because these body parts commonly come into direct contact with materials that cause splinters. When a hand or foot rubs against the surface of a piece of wood, for example, a small fragment can break off and become trapped under the skin.
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Considerations
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If you work with or around materials that can cause splinters or are purchasing new wood products, consider taking precautions. Wearing covering on your feet at all times can help to prevent splinters. People who walk around barefoot are more prone to splinters. Broken glass, wood fragments, shards of metal or tiny bits of plastic can penetrate an unprotected foot. Wearing protective gear when working with wood, plastic, metal or glass can also help to prevent splinters. Carpenters use a splinter guard, for example, to protect their index finger from becoming splintered. If you plan to purchase a wooden deck, picnic table or play set for your backyard, opting for items made with northern white cedar can help to reduce splinters. According to Barrett Brown in a 2003 New York Times article, white cedar is naturally splinter free
Warning
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Splinters are covered with bacteria and germs so if they're not removed properly or completely an infection can occur. While some splinters will work themselves out on their own, ones that become infected need to be removed immediately. If the skin around a splinter becomes warm, bright red or if the entry area of the splinter oozes with fluid, chances are the splinter is infected and medical treatment is necessary.
Prevention/Solution
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The solution for splinters is removal. Wash the area around the splinter with warm and soapy water. When a splinter is partially embedded, sterilized tweezers can be used to grasp the fragment protruding out the skin and by pulling the splinter out through its point of entry. To sterilize tweezers, heat the lower half with a lighter until it turns bright red. Allow them to cool before using. Completely embedded splinters often need to be surgically removed by a doctor who may use a needle to gently dig out the splinter or a scalpel to slice the skin and lift out the splinter.
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