In this season, lovers of swimming in the sea face the risk of being stung by jellyfish, and it seems clear that their numbers have increased significantly in recent weeks, and those who find it difficult to resist the desire to swim in the sea must prepare for their stings. According to what was published in SantemagazineA jellyfish sting is not considered fatal, but it can be very painful, and it is necessary to be prepared for the discomfort that can result from it, and to ensure that it is treated properly.
What does the pain caused by a jellyfish sting look like?
The jellyfish has stinging cells in its tentacles or anywhere else, which it uses as a means of defense to release poison when exposed to any confrontation. Therefore, the sting of a jellyfish looks like an electric charge, causing severe pain, often accompanied by a burning sensation that varies in severity from one person to another, followed by severe itching.
How should you behave when stung by a jellyfish?
There are steps you must take quickly on the beach when you are stung by a jellyfish:
Getting out of the water quickly, especially since the pain resulting from it can cause a state of panic that may cause drowning.
The remnants of jellyfish tentacles must be removed from the skin very carefully, using a thin tool such as a knife or the tip of a piece of cardboard.
A little sand can be placed on the affected area, and it can be rubbed gently to remove the remaining traces of stings and the poison released by the jellyfish.
The affected area must be washed well with sea water, and it is better to avoid plain water because it contributes to an increase in pain.
You can approach the affected area as a source of heat, such as the tip of a cigarette, because the venom of jellyfish melts when exposed to heat.
Vinegar can be used as one of the solutions available to treat a jellyfish sting, and it is often available on beaches for such cases. It contains acetic acid, which allows to get rid of the remains of stinging cells.
You should consult a doctor in case of exposure to a sting in the face, or if you experience an allergy.
When you return home, there are additional steps you can take:
The wound should be sterilized with a bandage moistened with antiseptic fluid.
If the reaction is mild, an anti-allergic ointment can be used to reduce the discomfort caused by the sting.
If the burning sensation continues following 48 hours of exposure, you should consult a doctor who will then prescribe an ointment containing cortisone.
The level of development of the sting site should be monitored over the following days.
People who already suffer from allergies should be more careful because they may experience a severe allergic reaction, following facing repeated stings.
What to avoid following being stung by a jellyfish?
Do not try to suck the sting site to get rid of the poison.
Do not put alcohol on the affected area.
Not cutting the sting site or making it bleed.
Do not touch the dead jellyfish on the sea, because the stinging cells can continue to cause harm at that time.
Not putting a bandage or bandage on the site of the sting.
