The problem with jellyfish is that they sneak up on their victims. Swimmers are cruising along in the ocean one minute, and feeling the sting of the jellyfish the next.
Jellyfish stings come from the long tentacles that trail the bell-shaped jellyfish. These tentacles have an alkali-based venom. The most dangerous reaction to a jellyfish sting is the possibility of severe allergic reaction.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: May last months
Here's How:
- Stay Safe! As always, safety is the most important step. Jellyfish tentacles (nematocysts) may still be on the skin. Follow universal precautions and wear personal protective equipment if available.
- Rinse the tentacles off with salt water. Do not use fresh water, it will worsen the stinging pain.
- Remove any remaining tentacles with a gloved hand or tweezers.
- Watch for anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction).
- Use vinegar (acetic acid) to neutralize the toxin in the nematocysts. In some cases, the use of vinegar is controversial (see tips below).
- Restrict movement of the affected area to discourage envenomation.
- Ibuprofen and acetaminophen will help relieve pain. Ice or heat may also help. Mild itching may be helped with diphenhydramine.
Tips:
- Urine will not work on a jellyfish sting. Some victims have reported pain relief, but urine does not always have enough acid to neutralize the venom. Use vinegar.
- The Portuguese man-of-war is technically not a jellyfish, and the use of vinegar is controversial within the marine first-aid community. Remove all tentacles from the sting site and rinse thoroughly (with sea water or vinegar). Watch for confusion, chest pain, and weakness. Man-of-war stings can be very serious.
- The most deadly jellyfish is the box jellyfish from Australia. Vinegar is definitely recommended for this species. If you suspect a box jellyfish sting, seek emergency treatment immediately.
