How to Treat an Infected Jellyfish Sting

Jellyfish are ocean creatures that have the ability to sting its prey with poison from the barbs in its tentacles. When people are swimming in the ocean, sometimes a jellyfish swims by and sting a person. A sting can occur just from the jellyfish brushing up against a person. As a result, lesions will appear on the skin and cause severe pain that can continue for up to 48 hours. If left untreated, the sting can become infected. However, with the proper care, you can treat an infected jellyfish sting.

Instructions

• 1

  Continuously clean the area every five hours. If you know that the wound has become infected--symptoms include redness, pain, blistering, increase in size--gently clean the area with antibacterial soap and warm water to prevent further infection. Make sure all stingers are off of the skin by pouring white vinegar on the wound.

• 2

  Drink 2 liters of water daily. Drinking water will strengthen your immune system and help your body flush out the microorganisms causing the infection.

• 3

  Apply antimicrobial ointment to the infected area. Always wash your wounds with soap and water prior to applying the ointment. This maximizes the effect of the ointment and prevents further spread of the infection. Apply the ointment only when you no longer feel any stinging sensations and know that all the stingers have been carefully removed. Applying creams or ointments to sensitive areas can increase pain.

• 4

  Take Benadryl capsules. This medication contains an antihistamine, which helps to reduce inflammation and itching associated with the infected jellyfish sting. Read and follow the dosage instructions on the medicine bottle.

• 5

  Consult your physician immediately. Even if the infection appears minor, have a medical expert look at the infected wound to determine if antibiotics or more powerful medications are needed. An untreated infection can lead to sepsis (blood infection) and other complications, which can be fatal.