Jellyfish stings

Overview

Jellyfish stings are a common problem for people who spend time in the ocean, whether they're swimming, wading, or diving. The long tentacles of these marine creatures can inject venom from thousands of microscopic barbed stingers into the skin, causing a range of symptoms from mild discomfort to life-threatening systemic illness. While most jellyfish stings can be treated with home remedies, severe reactions require immediate medical attention.

Types of Jellyfish stings

1. Box jellyfish sting: Caused by the box jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri), this type of sting is considered the most deadly and can cause cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, and death.
2. Sea nettle sting: Caused by the sea nettle (Chrysaora fuscescens), this type of sting is usually mild and can cause redness, swelling, and itching.
3. Portuguese man-of-war sting: Caused by the Portuguese man-of-war (Physalia physalis), this type of sting is usually mild and can cause pain, redness, and swelling.

Causes of Jellyfish stings

• Contact with jellyfish tentacles: When a person comes into contact with a jellyfish's tentacles, they can inject venom into the skin.
• Incorrect removal of tentacles: If the tentacles are not removed correctly, they can continue to release venom into the skin.

Risk Factors of Jellyfish stings

• Swimming or wading in areas where jellyfish are present: Jellyfish are more common in certain areas of the ocean, such as near coral reefs or in coastal waters.
• Poor water visibility: In areas with poor water visibility, it may be more difficult to see jellyfish and avoid them.
• Not wearing protective clothing: Failing to wear protective clothing such as a wetsuit or swim trunks can increase the risk of a jellyfish sting.
• Swimming during peak jellyfish season: Jellyfish are more active during certain times of the year, making it more likely to encounter them.

Symptoms of Jellyfish stings

Preventions of Jellyfish stings

• Swim in areas where jellyfish are less common: Avoid swimming in areas where jellyfish are known to be present.
• Check the water before swimming: Before swimming, check the water for signs of jellyfish such as their umbrella-shaped bodies or tentacles.
• Wear protective clothing: Wear protective clothing such as a wetsuit or swim trunks to reduce the risk of a jellyfish sting.
• Avoid swimming during peak jellyfish season: Avoid swimming during peak jellyfish season when they are more active.

Diagnosis of Jellyfish stings

• Physical examination: A physical examination will be performed to assess the severity of the sting and any signs of infection or systemic illness.
• Imaging studies: Imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans may be performed to rule out other conditions that may be causing symptoms.
• Biopsy: A biopsy may be performed to confirm the presence of venom in the skin.

Treatment for Jellyfish stings

1. Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be used to manage pain and discomfort.
2. Topical creams: Topical creams containing lidocaine or hydrocortisone may be used to reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Antihistamines: Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine may be used to treat itching and hives.
4. Systemic antibiotics: Systemic antibiotics may be used to treat infected stings.
5. Systemic corticosteroids: Systemic corticosteroids may be used to treat severe allergic reactions.

When to seek medical attention ?

1. Severe pain or swelling: If you experience severe pain or swelling after a jellyfish sting, you should see a doctor immediately.
2. Difficulty breathing or swallowing: If you experience difficulty breathing or swallowing after a jellyfish sting, you should see a doctor immediately.
3. Signs of infection: If you experience signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, or pus after a jellyfish sting, you should see a doctor immediately.