Poisonous fish stings & bull; hello healthy

1. Definition

What is a poisonous fish sting?

Fish that stings usually have venom in the dorsal fin. Stingrays have one or more fin venom in their tails. Due to its strength, stingrays often also cause scratches.

What are the signs and symptoms?

The sting from this animal causes pain and redness. It also commonly causes weakness, sweating, fever, vomiting, muscle cramps, paralysis, or even shock.

2. How to fix it

What should I do?

Fortunately, the toxins from these types of fish can be removed by warm temperatures.

• Clean the sting with sea water to weaken the poison.
• Remove any stingray fin particles that are left in the wound.
• Soak the infected area in hot water (43-45 ° C) for 30 minutes. Hot water neutralizes various toxins from fish or sea urchins and helps reduce pain.

When should I see a doctor?

Contact a doctor immediately if other symptoms appear after a fish sting.

For stingrays, call your doctor if the cut causes the skin to break open, or if there are fish spines / fins that are still in the skin that you cannot remove on your own.

3. Prevention

The best way to protect yourself is not to disturb sea creatures. When you go to the beach, read the warning signs regarding jellyfish or other dangerous sea creatures near the area.

Stay away from fishing boats and avoid water if you are bleeding: blood can attract sharks from miles away. When you see a shark, leave the water as fast and calm as possible.

Drag your feet, don't take a step, if you are walking in sea water. If you are walking in shallow water, dragging your feet can help you avoid stepping on animals. Animals may also sense your arrival and walk away.

Don't touch marine animals, including parts of them — even if they are dead. A tentacle can still be dangerous.

Cover yourself. Clothing can help protect you from animal stings and coral scratches. The chemicals in your skin can trigger the jellyfish to release their stings. Even wearing tights or special sunscreen can be a barrier between your skin chemistry and the jellyfish. Wearing shoes in the water is also a good idea. However, keep in mind that many spiny animals can tear your shoes or swimwear.