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How to drain blood from under a nail
You may be able to relieve severe, throbbing pain by draining blood from under your nail. This procedure is not needed and is not recommended if you are not having pain. This procedure is safe if done properly.
To remove blood from under a nail:
- Straighten a paper clip, and heat the tip in a flame until it is red-hot.
- Place the tip of the paper clip on the nail and let it melt through. There are no nerves in a nail, so putting a hot paper clip on a nail should not hurt.
- Do not push or apply pressure on the paper clip. There are nerves in the skin under the nail. You could accidentally touch the skin under the nail if pressure is applied to the nail.
- Go slowly, and reheat the clip as needed. A thick nail may take several tries. As soon as the hole is complete, blood will escape and the pain will be relieved.
- Soak the finger in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes, 3 times a day for 2 to 3 days. Clear or slightly bloody fluid may drain from the nail for 2 to 3 days.
You may repeat the procedure using the same hole. The pain and pressure that is immediately relieved may build back up again in a few days.
If your pain does not go away after you have drained the blood from under your nail, you may have a more serious injury. Call your doctor for an appointment.
Be sure to watch for signs of infection until your nail has healed. Signs of infection may include:
- Increased pain, swelling, redness, or warmth around the nail.
- Red streaks leading from the nail.
- Pus draining from the nail.
- Fever.
Current as of: March 20, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
