Why Jellyfish Stings Can Be So Painful: Understanding the Science
Discover why jellyfish stings hurt so much and how to treat them effectively.
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Jellyfish stings are so bad because they inject venom through thousands of microscopic barbs called nematocysts. This venom can cause intense pain, itching, swelling, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing or even heart problems. To alleviate pain, rinse the area with vinegar to neutralize the venom, remove tentacles with tweezers, and immerse the sting in hot water for pain relief.
FAQs & Answers
- What causes the pain from jellyfish stings? The pain from jellyfish stings is caused by venom injected through microscopic barbs called nematocysts when they come into contact with skin.
- How can I treat a jellyfish sting? To treat a jellyfish sting, rinse the area with vinegar to neutralize the venom, remove any tentacles with tweezers, and immerse the sting site in hot water for pain relief.
- Are all jellyfish stings harmful? While not all jellyfish stings are harmful, some species can cause severe reactions, including difficulty breathing and heart problems. It's important to identify the type of jellyfish and seek medical attention if needed.
- What should you not do after a jellyfish sting? Do not rinse the sting area with fresh water, as this can trigger more venom release. Avoid rubbing the sting site and do not use urine to rinse, as it may worsen the symptoms.