How to Safely Relieve Pressure from a Blood-Stuffed Nail: A DIY Guide

Almost anyone who works with their hands has experienced the throbbing pain of blood trapped under their nail. Faced with a blood-stuffed nail, should you be worried?

Understanding Hematomas and Nail Injuries

Hematoma, or blood-stuffed nail, is a common but uncomfortable condition. Last month, you may have slammed your car door, resulting in a blood-filled nail. Is this a cause for concern? If the nail is not causing you pain, there is generally no need to worry. However, if discomfort or pain persists, there are steps you can take to alleviate the pressure and pain.

DIY Method for Relieving Pressure from a Blood-Stuffed Nail

When dealing with a blood-stuffed nail, you can relieve the pressure and pain by making a small hole in the nail. Here is a DIY method using common household items for those confident in their ability to handle it:

Materials Needed:

A small sewing needle Rubbing alcohol, gin, vodka, or whiskey (anything over 40% alcohol) A lighter or flame A clean tissue or cloth Bandage or plaster bandaid

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Prepare the needle: First, ensure the needle is sterilized. Dip it in rubbing alcohol, or alternatively, use gin, vodka, or whiskey. Avoid using beer or cider as they do not have high enough alcohol content for sterilization. Heat the needle: Light a flame and heat the needle, allowing it to glow red/yellow. Make a hole in the nail: Insert the hot needle into the center of the blood-filled area underneath the nail. This will melt through the nail, creating a tiny hole that allows the blood to drain immediately, providing instant relief from pain. Release the pressure: Gently press the area around the nail with your other hand to help the blood drain out completely. Cleanse the area: Clean the nail with alcohol to prevent any infection. Then, apply a drop of superglue to the hole to seal it and keep it from refilling. Cover the nail with a clean bandage to protect it.

Remember, this method is not officially FDA approved. Proceed at your own risk. If you experience severe pain, continually spot healing, or if you doubt the effectiveness or safety of the procedure, consult a medical professional for advice.

Preventing Future Nail Injuries

Prevention is key. If a nail injury occurs again, a quick response can make all the difference. Here is a do-at-your-own-risk method for preventing the buildup of blood in a fresh hematoma:

Materials Needed:

A tiny sewing needle A lighter or flame Rubbing alcohol Suglu (superglue) Bandage

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Heat the needle: Tilt the needle and heat it using a flame, ensuring it is red hot. Insert the needle: Gently insert the needle into the center of the fresh blood blister under the nail. Release the pressure: Allow the hot needle to puncture the nail and release the blood. Avoid pushing further into the nail bed. Release and clean: Press the fingertip to allow the blood to come out. Clean the nail with alcohol to prevent infection. Apply a drop of superglue and cover with a bandage to maintain pressure and prevent refilling.

This DIY method taps into the natural relief many find when puncturing the nail to release pressure. With no nerves in the nail itself, it can actually provide a temporary sense of relief due to the pressure release.

While we are not medical professionals, these methods have been used extensively in workshop environments. Always consult a doctor for any concerns or questions. Health is paramount, and medical advice should never be replaced by a do-it-yourself approach.