There are a few reasons you might need to see a healthcare provider for a glass splinter. If any of the following apply, medical attention may be necessary:
- The glass is too deep and you are unable to get to it with tweezers and a needle.
- The skin around the splinter looks very inflamed, and you see redness, swelling, or pus. This may mean it is infected.
- The splinter is under a toenail or fingernail and you can’t get to it with tweezers.
- The splinter caused a lot of bleeding.
Before heading out to see a healthcare provider, put gauze on the wound and carefully wrap your foot with a clean bandage or cloth. This will help make sure the wound stays clean in transit.