Paper cut

Paper cut

A paper cut is a small but often painful cut or laceration caused by paper or similarly thin and sharp material. Despite their small size, paper cuts can often be quite painful as they can stimulate a large number of skin surface pain receptors (nociceptors).

Causes

Paper cuts are usually caused by the edge of a piece of paper being drawn across the skin. Paper, although it may appear smooth and innocuous, actually has a rough surface that can easily break the skin's surface. The thinness of paper also allows it to easily slice into the skin, causing a cut.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of a paper cut is a sharp, stinging pain. The cut will often appear as a thin, red line on the skin. It may also bleed slightly. Despite their small size, paper cuts can be quite painful because they often occur on the fingers or hands, which are areas with a high concentration of nerve endings.

Treatment

Treatment for a paper cut involves cleaning the wound with warm water and soap to prevent infection, and then covering it with a bandage or plaster. If the cut is deep or continues to bleed after a few minutes, medical attention may be required.

Prevention

Prevention of paper cuts involves handling paper carefully and using tools such as letter openers to open envelopes. Wearing gloves can also help prevent paper cuts when handling large amounts of paper.

See also

• First aid
• Wound healing
• Pain management