Problem healing - wound on thumb

[USArmyIraq1358]

Hello,

I suffered a small injury (non-combat) on my right thumb which was pierced by a screw driver bit (Philips); a large boom went off that sounded like a mortar and my hand slipped. It broke the skin and penetrated to a depth of approximately 1/8 - 1/4 inch. It bled and was treated at a TMC (troop medical center) with some antiseptic and a bandage.It seemed to heal but never fully recovered. This occurred mid 2009 in Iraq. Today, it still lingers with a cracked surface and red swelling underneath which looks like it is pushing up and causing the cracking in the skin. Any ideas how to cure this? I am thinking of using either acid or a scalpel to remove the affected area. I have a high tolerance for pain but after 2 plus years I am approaching my limit.

Also, although I was a government employee (GS-12/13) (not a worthless contractor) working for US Army Corps of Engineers in Iraq for over 1358 days, I have no health insurance and there is no way that I know of to obtain it or workers comp; plus I am now unemployed and barely surviving so my options are extremely limited. So, any option has to be limited by the constraints of limited financial expenditures which precludes hospitalization or other standard medical care.

Any help, assistance or advise in this matter would be greatly appreciated!

V/r,

Abused & Discarded American  

[Sicko123]

So sorry to hear of your plight. I know the issues affecting Americans today. Not having health insurance is a huge problem. You may not agree to follow my suggestion but there are other options for health care. You may qualify for assistance at a free clinic who could refer you to a doctor. There is also Public Aid. You may qualify for the Medical card while you are unemployed. It is relatively easy to get since you aren't receiving much of an income. It will help you get the medical attention you need. You probably have a foreign object left under the skin, and it needs to be removed completely. I wouldn't recommend digging it out yourself. Best to you!

[richard28]

Sounds as though you have nailed it. There is probably a metal sliver that was introduced with the puncture. If it doesn't work out by itself, it is probably metal.bonijokraus describes a typical wood sliver which works itself out. From experience, metal can stay with you for years or until it is removed. Try your local ER. If you do decide to go it yourself, use an exacto knife and liberal application of Hydrogen peroxide which you can pick up for abut fifty cents in any drug store. Only do what you need to do.Above all, be gentle!!.

[bonijokrauss]

Well first of all, don't dig into it, at the risk of causing an infection, or an even worse problem. I am wondering if there is something in there, like a small piece of dirt or metal. My daughter had a sliver in the back of leg that came out after about 2 years and we didn't know it was in there. She had slipped on a wood floor, got a sliver, but we thought we had it all out. But, there was always a red spot, or bump there. Secondly, I don't believe you need insurance to go to a VA facility, This service should be free to you .Also, most clinics have a program that you can apply for, that would give you free medical care, according your income. Call your local clinics and ask about this.