So over 48 hours ago I smashed my finger in the window, 3/4 of my nail is black under the nail (assuming that's blood) and the base of my nail is swollen and very sore and the under side of the tip of my finger is bruised and swollen. Is it too late for a doctor to drain my finger or help me? I have been reading online that I should have had it drained before 24 hours passed.

Yes, there is blood under the finger nail, it will dissipate and dry up. You will have a purple finger for about two weeks. If it makes you more comfortable, visit your doctor.

If you take a sterilized needle, you can carefully scratch through the nail and it will drain.

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If you take a sterilized needle, you can carefully scratch through the nail and it will drain.

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Where is the OP going to find a sterilized needle?

It is also possible you might lose the nail due to the injury.

Sewing needle or pin and a match/lighter/candle. The problem is that after it is drained you're going to have a open and unprotected wound until the nail grows out.

The best bet is to leave it alone and let it grow out. If you lose the nail, so be it. Just keep everything clean, dry, and protected.

Blood doesn't have to be drained from under the nail. Our nails are porous material. The blood will clot and dry up.

Tickle is correct, but draining it will relieve a lot of the pressure and discomfort.

To add... A needle under a flame is not proper sterilization and can cause infection.

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Originally Posted by j_9

To add... A needle under a flame is not proper sterilization and can cause infection.

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Really? I was always under the impression that would sterilize a clean needle. Learn something new every day.

You are better off pouring some rubbing alcohol over it rather than burning it.