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If you've been stung by a sea creature such as a jellyfish, seek local medical advice as soon as possible. You could ask a lifeguard or someone with first aid training for help.
If help is not available:
rinse the affected area with seawater (not fresh water)
remove any spines from the skin using tweezers or the edge of a bank card
soak the area in very warm water (as hot as can be tolerated) for at least 30 minutes – use hot flannels or towels if you cannot soak it
take painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen
do not pee on the sting
do not apply ice or a cold pack
do not touch any tentacles or spines with your bare hands
do not cover or close the wound
you've been stung by a sea creature and have:
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.
The main symptoms of sea creature stings are intense pain where you're stung and an itchy rash.
Jellyfish and Portuguese man-of-war stings can also cause raised stripes on the skin (welts).
If you go in the sea there are things you can do to reduce the risk of being stung by a sea creature.
look out for beach warning signs
consider wearing a wetsuit when swimming in the sea, particularly during the spring and summer
wear waterproof shoes or sandals when walking in shallow water or rocky areas
scuff or stamp your feet when walking in shallow water to make sea creatures aware you're approaching
do not touch or handle sea creatures that sting
Portuguese man-of-war.
