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The dog days of summer are perfect for a day at the beach, with the warmer ocean water inviting swimmers and body surfers to venture into the waves. But while the warmer water attracts more beachgoers, it also attracts jellyfish, and that can sometimes lead to an unpleasant encounter.
According to Brown University' Guide to Jellyfish, there are approximately 10 species of “gelatinous plankton,” commonly known as “jellyfish,” found in Narragansett Bay and salt ponds. Some of those can produce powerful stings when swimmers come into contact with their tentacles. At times, those encounters can turn a day at the beach into a visit to the ER.
South County Hospital’s chief of emergency medicine, Dr. William Sabina, is familiar with the aftereffects of jellyfish encounters. The hospital’s proximity to Narragansett, Matunuck, Westerly, and other beach communities draws those who crossed paths with one of these gelatinous creatures.
“There are some jellyfish that are more toxic than others, including Portuguese Man o’ war,” Dr. Sabina said of the various types patients have encountered. “Moon Jellyfish are thought of as toxic but they’re really not that bad. They are very common and usually show in large numbers. Some can be seen in the area.”
If you do suffer a jellyfish sting, Dr. Sabina recommends treating the area immediately:
• Wash the area with hot water
• Carefully pluck any visible stingers out of the skin
• Rinse the area with white vinegar
“Symptoms could last four to six hours at worst,” Dr. Sabina said, of the more common species. A species new to this area, the clinging jellyfish, delivers a more potent sting that can last up to 12 hours he said, as well as cause muscle cramps, chest tightness, and swollen throat.
Applying a hydrocortisone cream or taking a histamine-blocker such as Benadryl, can help relieve any minor allergic reactions such as rash or itching.
“If you develop severe swelling or are having trouble breathing, or the pain is too intense, you should come to the emergency room,” Dr. Sabina said. “Minor redness and pain could be treated at an Express Care.”
While white vinegar and Benadryl may not typically be part of your beach gear, during August and September when the water is at its warmest and the jellyfish appear, it may be a good idea to have some on hand.
Beachgoers should always pack extra bottled water to drink and wash wounds, sunscreen, Neosporin and Band-Aids for minor cuts that often happen at the beach.
Injured? Feeling ill? Stung by a jellyfish? Find out whether the ER or Express Care is the place to go.