Health Tip: When a Splinter Needs a Doctor

(HealthDayNews) -- Most times a splinter is superficial and easy to slide out from under the skin.

But deeply embedded foreign bodies need to be removed by a doctor, says the San Diego Children's Hospital.

You should also call your doctor if:

• The foreign body has a barb, for example, if it's a fish hook.
• It's a clear sliver, such as a piece of glass or plastic.
• There's pencil lead or other pigment left in the skin after the splinter is removed.
• The foreign object is causing severe pain.
• You are too scared or unable to take out the splinter.

-- Felicity Stone