What Are The Treatments For Sea Lice For Humans

Sea lice, also called sea bather's eruption, cause itchy red rashes on areas covered by bathing suits. Though they are called sea lice, they aren't lice but microscopic larvae of the thimble jellyfish and the larval form of some sea anemones. The larvae sting when they become trapped inside the swimsuit fabric and skin. The stinging mechanisms are known as nematocysts, just like those of the jellyfish. They are most common from March to August.

Symptoms

When first exposed and still in the water, you might feel a tingling sensation on areas of the body covered by a bathing suit. Hairy underarms and chests may also be affected. Over the next few hours, you will notice an itchy red rash. The itch may last several weeks. The rash is the result of the jellyfish venom. You may also develop a fever, flu-like symptoms and feel tired. Children are most susceptible to fevers, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. The symptoms can last for a couple days or up to two weeks.

Prevention

The only true way to prevent sea lice stings is to avoid swimming in water if a warning for sea lice is posted. Look for postings near lifeguard stands. Wear a smaller swimsuit that covers fewer areas. This leaves the sea lice fewer areas to get trapped and sting. Some sunscreens may help prevent sea lice stings. Try Safe Sea, which is used by swimmers, fishermen, divers and surfers to prevent stings and sunburn at the same time.

What to Do

If you feel the stings, get out of the water. The most important thing to do is take off your bathing suit and rinse off with fresh water. Don't shower with the swimsuit still on because this will cause any remaining sea lice to sting. Dry off with a towel and put on dry, loose-fitting clothing.

After the shower, put diluted vinegar or rubbing alcohol on your skin; this will help neutralize the toxins from the sea lice stings. You can also use hydrogen peroxide on the skin.

Machine wash your swimsuit in hot soapy water and dry it in a hot dryer. Hand rinsing and air drying the swimsuit won't get rid of any remaining larvae in the suit. Because the nematocysts aren't actually alive, they will continue to sting until the stinging cells are triggered or the larvae are removed.

To help relieve the itching, try hydrocortisone cream and antihistamines.

Tags: lice stings, bathing suit, covered bathing, fewer areas, prevent lice, prevent lice stings