Jellyfish Stings and Other Marine Life Hazards

Jellyfish stings and other marine life hazards are something to think about before you go swimming in the ocean. There is a variety of marine life that can sting or bite causing a painful reaction. However, there are a few exceptions that can be life threatening.

• Jellyfish
• Box Jellyfish
• Portuguese Man of War
• Stingray
• Sea Anemone
• Sea Urchins
• Moray Eels
• Coral
• Cone shell
• Sharks

• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Cramps
• Fever
• Dizziness
• Difficulty breathing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Paralysis

• Calm the patient.
  
  
• Stingers should not be removed without protecting the hands, gloves should be worn.
  
  
• To reduce the toxins, take a handful of wet sand from the ocean and vigorously rub it on the affected area. Allow the salt water to stay on the area. Do not use fresh water.
  
  
• To neutralize the poison, pour vinegar over the affected area (do not use vinegar for a Portuguese Man of War sting, use salt water).
  
  
• To neutralize and eliminate pain, pour ammonia over the affected area.
  
  
• Put aloe vera gel on the sting to soothe the skin.
  
  
• Do not raise the affected area above the heart.
  
  
• Do not give any medication to the patient without medical advice.
  
  
• Exercise should be avoided.

• The patient has difficulty breathing.
  
  
• Bleeding can not be stopped.
  
  
• A sting from a Box Jellyfish is more serious and an anti-venom may need to be administered.
  
  
• The bite or sting occurs on the face, chest or groin area.
  
  
• If the patient is experiencing a severe allergic reaction.

Skin infections may occur if small pieces of coral, other debris or bacteria get into the wound. To treat coral wounds, remove all visible debris and clean the wound thoroughly and apply an antiseptic or antibiotic cream to keep the wound from becoming infected. Seek medical attention if the wound becomes red, has a foul smell, develops pus or the patient develops a fever.