Marine Louse: Identification, Signs, Origins, Remedies, and Further Details
Seabather's eruption, often referred to as "sea lice," is a skin irritation and itchiness that can occur after swimming in the ocean. The condition is caused by small jellyfish and sea anemones that become trapped between swimwear and skin.
Symptoms of seabather's eruption include intensely itchy and stinging skin, small papules or bumps, and a rash. In rare cases, additional symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, cramps, malaise, and fever may occur.
The creatures responsible for the eruption release toxins when under pressure, friction, or exposure to freshwater, causing these symptoms. Researchers believe that the jellyfish may cause seabather's eruption at any stage of their life cycle.
Anyone who goes into the ocean can come in contact with the sea creatures that cause seabather's eruption. Coastal areas such as the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and the southeast coast of the U.S. have a higher risk. The City of New York has also warned that cases of seabather's eruption may occur when people swim in the water off of Long Island.
Surfers, children ages 15 years or younger, and people with a history of seabather's eruption may be more likely to experience the condition. Researchers suggest that children may have a higher risk due to spending more time in the water and potentially having more sensitive skin.
To manage the symptoms of seabather's eruption, doctors may prescribe various treatments. For sensitive areas like the groin, face, and armpits, less potent topical steroids such as hydrocortisone may be prescribed. For the rash on areas such as the torso, legs, or arms, doctors may prescribe clobetasol, a high potency corticosteroid.
Doctors may also recommend antihistamines to help alleviate the itching. For daytime hours, fexofenadine, a second-generation antihistamine, may be prescribed as it is less likely to cause drowsiness than first-generation antihistamines. For nighttime, diphenhydramine, a first-generation antihistamine, may be prescribed, which may cause drowsiness and may help someone sleep despite the intense itching.
To lessen the severity of seabather's eruption, it is recommended to remove swimwear and shower after coming out of the water. However, it is unlikely to prevent the condition from occurring.
While seabather's eruption can be uncomfortable, understanding its causes and symptoms can help swimmers take precautions and seek appropriate treatment when necessary.
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