Jellyfish Sting Treatment - An informative guide on how to treat Jellyfish stings

We all know how painful a jellyfish sting can be. If you have ever been unfortunate enough to be stung by one of these creatures, you may think twice of getting in the water without having the necessary protection at hand. 

A jellyfish sting can in some cases be severe and may even scare your body up to several months if the necessary precautions are not taken.

Their painful stings is caused by their venom which is contained in stinging cells called nematocysts that stick to your skin when one brushes against your skin. The venom is subsequently released when the cell ruptures. So it is important that you never touch the effected area.

Today it the jellyfish population are ballooning out of control and every summer, these creatures are ready to invade our beaches. Jellyfish stings are in fact one of the most common snorkeling hazards you may encounter.  

However there are many jellyfish sting treatment you can apply. Some come together with a sunscreen lotion and are intended to minimize the effect of the jelly fish sting.

However it is sometimes impossible to avoid a potential sting. So a great tip is to always carry a bottle of vinegar with you in your snorkeling bag.

It is not the first time I got stung wearing a full wetsuit, including gloves, hoodie and booties. The jelly fish stung me on my face between the mask and the hoodie which was the only part of my body which was exposed. So what can you do if you get stung by a jellyfish.

Knowing some jelly fish first aid could save you from worsening the injury. Here I will point out the most effective Jellyfish sting treatment which you could apply:

• When stung, avoid rubbing the effected area and contrary to belief, do not clean it with mineral or tap water.

• Rinse the effected area with sea water and be sure not to rub.

• Pour the jellyfish sting treatment or vinegar over the injury and allow a few minutes to incapacitate stinging cells that have not yet fired.

• Apply a dry powder or gently pat dry the effected area.

• It is also wise to purchase an over the counter antihistamine preparation.

• If the jellyfish sting is severe or you are having a reaction seek immediate medical help.

Another common snorkeling injury is unknowingly stepping on a spiny creature such as a sea urchin. Its spines may puncture the skin and break off to become embedded in the foot. Besides being extremely uncomfortable, a painful reaction will usually develop.

In these instances, your aim is to inactivate the venom and seek medical assistance.

The following is a list of procedures to be taken in such events:

• Place the injured part in hot water (as hot as the you can bear but be careful not to scald) for at least 30 minutes. Top up the water as it cools.

• If the pain persists go to hospital, where further treatment may be given or remaining spines within the skin are removed.

 

For more on snorkel safety and other first aid guides be sure to read the following related links: