Find out what to do after a sea creature sting. You can usually use first aid, but call 999 for an ambulance if there are serious symptoms like severe swelling.
Overview
Most stings from sea creatures in the UK are not serious and can be treated with first aid. Sometimes you may need to go to hospital.
GET HELP IF POSSIBLE
Ask a lifeguard or someone with first aid training for help.
If help is not available:
DO
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rinse the affected area with seawater (not fresh water)
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remove any spines from the skin using tweezers or the edge of a bank card
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soak the area in very warm water (as hot as can be tolerated) for at least 30 minutes – use hot flannels or towels if you cannot soak it
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take painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen
DON’T
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do not use vinegar
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do not pee on the sting
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do not apply ice or a cold pack
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do not touch any spines with your bare hands
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do not cover or close the wound
GO TO A MINOR INJURIES UNIT IF YOU HAVE:
- severe pain that is not going away
- been stung on your face or genitals
- been stung by a stingray
GO TO A&E OR CALL 999 IF:
you’ve been stung and have:
- difficulty breathing
- chest pain
- fits or seizures
- severe swelling around the affected area
- severe bleeding
- vomiting
- lightheadedness or loss of consciousness
The main symptoms of sea creature stings are intense pain where you’re stung and an itchy rash.
Jellyfish and Portuguese man-of-war stings can also cause raised circular areas on the skin (welts).
DO
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look out for beach warning signs
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consider wearing a wetsuit when swimming in the sea, particularly during the spring and summer
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wear waterproof shoes or sandals when walking in shallow water or rocky areas
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scuff or stamp your feet when walking in shallow water to make sea creatures aware you’re approaching
DON’T
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do not touch or handle sea creatures that sting