Jellyfish

:This article is about jellyfish, the sea creatures. For the pop band, see Jellyfish (band).

Treatment of Stings

When stung by a jellyfish, a little first aid is in order. The goal in first aid is to prevent nematocysts further discharging their venom and reduction of the harmful effects of the venom. If the sting is serious get out the water immediately to avoid drowning. The first step is to carefully remove any attached tentacles from the skin as they continue to discharge venom. Clothing, sand, towels, seaweed are all effective for this purpose. Secondly vinegar is recommended to neutralize any nematocysts that haven't discharged into the skin yet. Do not rub the wound as this will encourage the release of venom. If vinegar is not available sugar, meat tenderizer, and sodium bicarbonate have been reported to have some level of success. Do not use alcohol, spirits, or urine as these will actually increase the release of venom into the body. Victims of serious stings or Cubozoa stings should seek prompt medical attention.

Related Topics:
First aid - Nematocysts - Venom - Water - Tentacles - Skin - Clothing - Sand - Towel - Seaweed - Vinegar - Sugar - Sodium bicarbonate - Alcohol - Urine - Cubozoa

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Note that the Portuguese Man O' War is not a jellyfish and the recommended first aid is different.

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