How to Prevent Marine Envenomations From Spoiling Your Summer

Marine envenomations refer to the exposure to toxins, or poison from marine creatures like jellyfish, sea urchins, stingrays, scorpionfish, sea snakes, venomous fish, or corals.

Though quite common - and in some cases quite serious - marine envenomations had not gained much attention until recently when cases have become reported more frequenty, especially on social media.

If you suspect marine envenomation, go to urgent care in Palm Springs clinic immediately to get the medical intervention you need.

Here are some ways to prevent marine envenomation so that you can still enjoy the beach in the summer.

1. Be respectful of marine life

You must observe a respectful distance when you're surrounded by marine life. Remember, marine animals don't typically "attack" unless they are touched or feel threatened. So, avoid touching marine creatures even if their pretty colors look tempting. Never attempt to feed marine creatures.

2. Learn about the common marine animals in the area

Ask the locals if there are jellyfish, or stingrays in the water. If there are, also ask where these creatures usually stay so that you can avoid swimming in their direction. 

If you’re aware beforehand that there may be stinging sea creatures around, read up on safety rules and guidelines of the beach. Some areas might disallow swimming in certain sections, or close the beach for the day if the presence of marine life might be too risky for the beach-going public. 

3. Use protective shoes

There are protective water shoes you can wear when you're swimming, or wading in the water. However, you must be aware that this type of footwear has a thin sole and might not protect you from marine animals with spikes, such as a stonefish. So, you still need to be careful when you take your steps underwater. Be sure not to step on marine when possible. 

4. Be careful when beachcombing.

Never assume that there are no marine creatures in the sand, so always put your hands and feet where you can see them, even when you are just beachcombing. While it might be fun to play in the sand, it's still home to some sea animals. Therefore, reconsider this activity as you could be disturbing the peace and they can try to sting, or attack you. 

5. Always have a first aid kit with you

People don't tend to bring first aid kits to the beach because there must be lifeguards everywhere for emergencies. However, you should still be prepared. A good first aid kit should include the following, according to the International Medical Training: 

• Pain control medication
• Fever medication
• Allergy medication
• Band-aids
• Blister care
• Gauze for cleaning and covering wounds
• Antibiotic ointment for cuts and scrapes
• Electrolyte solution for diarrhea or dehydration
• Sunscreen 
• Tweezers

Need medical help? Go to Palm Springs Urgent Care

According to the American Family Physician, marine envenomation may be fatal in some beaches in the United States, or the Caribbean, but the biggest concern is actually the painful sting that comes with the bites.

Sometimes, the pain, accompanied with some swelling and redness, could last for three days and could temporarily limit a person's movement. If you have sustained an injury from marine life, seek medical help from urgent care in Palm Springs immediately. For inquiries, Contact Us.

The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.