Our essential guide to jellyfish stings

Spending a day at the beach can be a fun and relaxing way to unwind and enjoy the outdoors. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential hazards that come with swimming in the ocean, one of which is the risk of being stung by a jellyfish. Jellyfish stings are a common occurrence at beaches around the world, and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and even life-threatening complications. In this article, we will discuss what to do if you are stung by a jellyfish, how to avoid getting stung in the first place, and what not to do.

What to do if you are stung by a jellyfish

If you are stung by a jellyfish, it’s important to act quickly to minimise the pain and prevent any potential complications. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Get out of the water: The first thing you should do if you feel a jellyfish sting is to get out of the water as quickly as possible. This will help prevent any further stings and reduce the risk of additional injuries.
2. Rinse the affected area with saltwater: Once you are out of the water, rinse the affected area with saltwater. Avoid using freshwater, as this can make the sting worse by causing the jellyfish’s stingers to release more venom. You can also try removing any tentacles that may still be on your skin, using a pair of tweezers or the edge of a credit card. Be sure to wear gloves or use a towel to avoid getting stung yourself.
3. Apply a heat pack or immerse the affected area in hot water: Applying heat to the affected area can help reduce the pain and neutralise the venom. You can use a heat pack, immerse the affected area in hot water (around  43-45°C) for 20 to 45 minutes, or take a hot shower. Avoid using ice or freshwater, as these can make the pain worse.
4. Use vinegar as a last resort: If hot water or a heat pack is not available, you can use vinegar to neutralise the venom. However, vinegar should only be used as a last resort, as it can cause the jellyfish’s stingers to release more venom. If you do use vinegar, apply it to the affected area for no more than 30 seconds.
5. Seek medical attention if necessary: If the pain is severe or there are signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or swelling, seek medical attention immediately.

What not to do if you are stung by a jellyfish

There are several things you should avoid doing if you are stung by a jellyfish. These include:

1. Scratching the affected area: Scratching the affected area can cause the venom to spread and make the pain worse.
2. Applying freshwater, ice, or alcohol: Freshwater, ice, and alcohol can all make the pain worse by causing the jellyfish’s stingers to release more venom.
3. Rubbing the affected area: Rubbing the affected area can also cause the venom to spread and make the pain worse.

How to avoid getting stung by a jellyfish

The best way to avoid getting stung by a jellyfish is to take preventative measures. Here are some tips to help you avoid jellyfish stings:

1. Swim in designated areas: Swim in areas that are designated for swimming, as these are often monitored for jellyfish and other hazards.
2. Wear protective clothing: Wear a wetsuit or other protective clothing to reduce your risk of being stung.
3. Be aware of jellyfish season: Be aware of the jellyfish season in your area and avoid swimming during peak times.
4. Look out for warning signs: Read warning signs posted at the beach and pay attention to any verbal warnings from lifeguards or other beach staff.
5. Avoid touching jellyfish: Avoid touching jellyfish, even if they appear to be dead, as their stingers can still release venom.

Being stung by a jellyfish can be a painful and potentially dangerous experience. However, by following the steps outlined above, you can minimize the pain and prevent any potential complications. Remember to always be aware of the potential hazards when swimming in the ocean, take preventative measures to avoid jellyfish stings, and seek medical attention if necessary. By being prepared and taking precautions, you can enjoy a safe and fun day at the beach.

Can I pee on a jellyfish sting to stop it hurting?

Contrary to popular belief, peeing on a jellyfish sting is not an effective treatment. In fact, it can actually make the sting worse by causing the jellyfish’s stingers to release more venom. The idea that urine can neutralize the venom of a jellyfish sting likely comes from anecdotal reports of people feeling relief after urinating on a sting. However, this is likely due to the fact that the warm urine provides temporary pain relief, rather than any actual neutralization of the venom. Instead of using urine, it’s best to follow the steps outlined in my previous answer, including rinsing the affected area with saltwater, applying heat or vinegar if necessary, and seeking medical attention if the pain is severe or there are signs of an allergic reaction.

What are the main types of jellyfish in UK waters?

There are several species of jellyfish that can be found in the waters around the UK, and some of them are known to cause stings. Here are some of the most common jellyfish species that can be found in UK waters and are known to cause stings:

1. Moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita): This is the most common jellyfish species found in UK waters and is generally harmless to humans. However, some people may experience mild stinging or irritation if they come into contact with the jellyfish’s tentacles.
2. Lion’s mane jellyfish (Cyanea capillata): This is the largest jellyfish species found in UK waters and is capable of delivering a painful sting. The tentacles of a lion’s mane jellyfish can reach up to several meters long and contain thousands of stinging cells.
3. Compass jellyfish (Chrysaora hysoscella): This jellyfish species is less common than the moon jellyfish but is still found in UK waters. Its sting can cause mild to moderate pain and discomfort, as well as redness and swelling.
4. Blue jellyfish (Cyanea lamarckii): This jellyfish species is often found in the waters around the UK in the summer months. Its sting can cause mild to moderate pain and discomfort, as well as redness and swelling.
5. Portuguese man o’ war (Physalia physalis): This jellyfish-like creature is not actually a true jellyfish, but it is sometimes found in UK waters and can deliver a very painful sting. Its tentacles can reach up to several meters long and contain thousands of stinging cells.

It’s important to note that not all jellyfish species found in UK waters are known to cause stings, and the severity of a jellyfish sting can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the species of jellyfish, the size of the person who is stung, and the amount of venom delivered. If you are stung by a jellyfish, it’s important to seek medical attention if the pain is severe or if there are any signs of an allergic reaction.

Can all jellyfish still sting if they’re out of the water at low tide, or dead?

Yes, even jellyfish that are out of the water or dead can still sting. This is because the tentacles of a jellyfish contain specialized cells called nematocysts, which are capable of releasing a venomous thread when triggered. When a jellyfish is out of the water or dead, its tentacles can still contain nematocysts that are capable of releasing venom if they come into contact with skin. In fact, some studies have shown that nematocysts can remain active and capable of stinging for hours or even days after a jellyfish has died or been removed from the water. It’s important to be cautious around jellyfish, even if they appear to be dead or stranded on the beach. If you come into contact with a jellyfish, even a dead one, be sure to avoid touching its tentacles and seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of a sting.

Are there any over the counter medicines available in the UK that can help with a jellyfish sting?

In the UK, there are over-the-counter (OTC) medications that can help to alleviate the symptoms of a jellyfish sting. Here are some of the OTC products that you can consider:

1. Antihistamines: These medications can help to reduce itching, swelling, and redness caused by a jellyfish sting. Examples of antihistamines available in the UK include cetirizine, loratadine, and chlorphenamine.
2. Topical creams and gels: There are several topical creams and gels available in the UK that can help to alleviate the pain and itching caused by a jellyfish sting. These products typically contain active ingredients such as lidocaine or hydrocortisone.
3. Painkillers: Over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help to reduce pain and discomfort caused by a jellyfish sting.

It’s important to note that while these medications can help to alleviate the symptoms of a jellyfish sting, they are not a substitute for proper first aid and medical attention. If you are stung by a jellyfish and experience severe pain, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. When should you see a doctor or medical professional about a jellyfish sting? While most jellyfish stings are not life-threatening, there are certain situations where it is important to seek medical attention for a jellyfish sting. Here are some signs and symptoms that may indicate the need for medical attention:

1. Severe pain: If the pain from the jellyfish sting is severe and does not improve with home treatment, it may be a sign of a more serious reaction.
2. Difficulty breathing: If you experience difficulty breathing after a jellyfish sting, seek medical attention immediately.
3. Allergic reaction: If you develop signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
4. Persistent symptoms: If you experience persistent symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or a fever after a jellyfish sting, it is important to seek medical attention.
5. Large or multiple stings: If you are stung by multiple jellyfish or if you are stung in a sensitive area such as the face or genitals, seek medical attention.
6. Children or elderly: Children and elderly individuals may be more vulnerable to the effects of a jellyfish sting and may require medical attention more quickly.

It’s important to note that while many jellyfish stings can be treated with home remedies, seeking medical attention when necessary is important to ensure proper treatment and prevent complications. If in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical attention if you are unsure about the severity of a jellyfish sting.