How to Treat a Jellyfish Sting

It's vacation time! You just booked at a nice seaside resort. Remember as you head to the beach that by taking that nice, refreshing, dip into the ocean, you run the risk of being stung by a jellyfish.

You will know right away if you are stung by a jellyfish. It feels like a sharp, burning pain. Should you get stung, get out of the water immediately. Different jellies have varying venoms that could make it difficult to swim, or even cause immobility. If you need help while out in the water, start yelling for help or making a lot of noise so you catch people's attention. If you begin to show any signs of poisoning or an allergic reaction, have someone close by, or a lifeguard, call 911 immediately. Signs will be; difficulty breathing, swelling in your face or throat, vomiting, or wheezing (there are other symptoms, but these are the most common). You know your body, if something seems weird, seek emergency help.

Lay in a safe spot on the beach and lay as still as possible. Any movement can cause the venom from the sting to spread further throughout your body. Lifeguard towers are usually equipped with vinegar, so have someone get it if possible. If vinegar is not available, salt water will work just as well. The idea is to pour the vinegar or water over the infected area to deactivate the stinging cells left on your body. It is very important that you do not use fresh water, as that can trigger the release of more venom. Use anything nearby to help remove the remaining tentacles - a sand shovel, glove, tweezers, or anything will work, just don't use your hand or you will be stung.

You can also cover the area with moist sand as soon as the rinsing is complete, and with a shell, credit card, or other flat object...try to "shave" off the remaining particles. If you take this step, make sure to wash away any remaining sand with the vinegar or salt water to wash away any tentacles or pieces left behind.

The pain will go away, but in the mean time, you can use a few tactics to try and relieve some of the pain. Cortisone or other antihistamines will help to ease the pain, just rub some of the cream over the wound. You can also use an ice pack for temporary relief, just wrap it in a towel and apply it to the affected area. Be sure the melting water from the ice does not touch the wound, and don't leave it on longer than 15 minutes. The antihistamine would be your best bet for pain relief.

If you are still having issues with the sting after 24 hours, you need to seek medical help, especially if you notice any form of an allergic reaction, or funny symptoms starting to occur. All jellyfish stings are painful, but not all of them are serious. In fact, very few require medical treatment. Be sure to research the area where you are vacationing as some places have lethal jellies, while others have harmless jellies. There are many dangerous jellyfish in Australia, for example, so do your homework before you go diving into the ocean!