Effective Treatments for Jellyfish Stings: What Doctors Recommend

Discover how doctors effectively treat jellyfish stings using vinegar, pain relief methods, and when to seek medical help.

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Doctors treat jellyfish stings by first rinsing the area with vinegar to neutralize the venom. They then remove tentacles using tweezers and not bare hands. Pain relief is managed with hot water immersion (40-45°C) for 20-45 minutes, and over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Topical creams may be applied to reduce itching and swelling. In severe cases, medical care includes antihistamines or steroids to manage allergic reactions. Seek immediate help if symptoms worsen.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What should you do immediately after being stung by a jellyfish? Immediately rinse the affected area with vinegar to neutralize the venom and avoid using fresh water, as it can trigger more venom release.
  2. Can you remove jellyfish tentacles with bare hands? No, always use tweezers to remove jellyfish tentacles instead of your bare hands to avoid getting stung yourself.
  3. What pain relief methods are recommended for jellyfish stings? Hot water immersion (40-45°C) for 20-45 minutes and over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help alleviate pain.
  4. When should you seek medical help for a jellyfish sting? Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen, or if there are signs of severe allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing or extensive swelling.