Summer inconveniences: First aid for stings from sea urchins, jellyfish and poisonous marine fish

Whether diving in the crystal clear water, walking along the sandy beach or enjoying an outdoor picnic, an encounter with a sea urchin, a poisonous fish or an insect sting can quickly spoil your mood.

Sea urchins hiding among the stones can cause severe pain with their spines if we step on them. Jellyfish that swim just below the surface can release venom when touched, causing searing pain and unpleasant burns. And of course, the sting of insects such as bees, wasps or hornets can cause allergic reactions that require immediate attention.

Therefore, it is important to be prepared for such inconveniences and to know how to act correctly, if it comes to them. With correct information and appropriate measures, pain can be alleviated and more serious complications can be prevented.

Sea urchins: How to deal with a sting

When you step on a sea urchin, the spines can dig deep into the skin, causing pain and inflammation. If this happens, it is important to act as soon as possible. The skin should still be moist, as this makes it easier removing spines with a sterile needle or tweezers.

After removing the spines, thoroughly disinfect the wound and apply antibiotic ointment, then protect the wound with sterile gauze. A wound caused by a sea urchin can cause long-term pain and discomfort, so it is important to take care of the wound properly. If the condition does not improve or if an infection occurs, seek medical attention immediately.

Jellyfish: Burns and how to relieve them

Jellyfish stings are also unpleasant. When you touch their body, you can feel a pain similar to a burn with hot metal. If this happens, it is important to burn the area as soon as possible rinse with sea water or wine vinegar, as sweet water can make the pain worse. If you don't have vinegar on hand, you can also use lemon or even urine, which can help neutralize toxins.

After the first rinse, it's a good idea to gently rub the area with sand to remove any stinging jellyfish residue. If blisters appear, do not pierce them, as this can lead to infection. Cold compresses can help reduce pain and swelling. If the affected area is larger than the palm of your hand or if more severe symptoms such as dizziness or difficulty breathing occur, seek medical attention immediately.

Poisonous fish: How to deal with a sting

Stings from venomous fish such as spider fish can cause severe pain that radiates from the sting site. If you encounter such a fish, try to wash the wound as soon as possible and remove the poisonous spines. The poison is sensitive to high temperatures, therefore immerse the affected part of the body in hot water, as you can tolerate, and seek medical attention if more severe symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or breathing problems occur.

A wound caused by a poisonous fish may change color and swell. It is important to monitor the affected area and seek medical help if necessary. Some poisonous fish can also cause systemic reactions, so quick reaction is key.

Insects: Bee, wasp and hornet stings

Insects such as bees, wasps and hornets are common companions of summer days. If you are stung by a bee, remove the stinger as soon as possible to prevent further release of venom. Affected site cool with ice and apply antihistamine cream to reduce itching and swelling. Wasp and hornet stings can be even more dangerous, as they can cause serious allergic reactions. If hives or difficulty breathing occur, seek medical attention immediately.

Bee, wasp and hornet stings can also cause systemic allergic reactions. In severe cases, anaphylactic shock can occur, which is life-threatening. Symptoms include rash, difficulty breathing, dizziness and even loss of consciousness. If you or someone close to you is hypersensitive to insect stings, always carry epinephrine and seek immediate medical attention in the event of a sting.

Ants: How to deal with bites

In the case of ant bites, the reaction is usually local. If the bite itches or hurts, use cold compresses and antihistamine creams. Red ant bites can cause blisters that itch and hurt. It is important not to scratch the affected area as this can lead to infection.

Ant bites usually do not cause serious problems, but they can in some people allergic reactions. If you develop more severe symptoms, such as swelling that spreads or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.