The sting is sparked by a reaction to a protein-based venom.
Jellyfish release venom from microscopic stingers on their tentacles callednematocysts.
Anaphylaxis needs to be treated quickly with an epinephrine injection.
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This article discusses jellyfish stings.
Most are mild and readily treatable at home.
Jellyfish tentacles have thousands of nematocysts that can pierce the skin and inject venom.
The sting often leaves tentacle impressions that may be red, brown, or purple track marks.
The entire area may be pink, red, or purple.
Once first aid is delivered, medications can help alleviate pain and swelling.
Severe reactions need to be treated in a hospital.
Both may be involved and are often difficult to tell apart.
In most cases, a severe reaction will occur immediately or soon after the sting.
However, if anaphylaxis is involved, reactions have been known to be delayed for days and even weeks.
Treatment of Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is treated as a medical emergency in a hospital.
This latter effect helps reduce the risk of shock.
Few of these homespun remedies have any research to support their use and may cause more harm than good.
The benefits appear to differ by species.
Do not pee on a jellyfish sting.
Moreover, peeing on a tentacle may cause it to contract, injecting more venom into the skin.
Avoiding Jellyfish Stings
Avoiding jellyfish stings is undoubtedly a better strategy than treating them.
There are several things you could do to protect yourself:
Summary
Jellyfish stings are relatively common.
These severe symptoms require immediate medical attention.
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