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"Few travel myths are as persistent as the idea that peeing on a jellyfish sting will relieve pain. Yet despite its popularity, research discredits this long-standing belief. In fact, urine has no effect on the venom because it dilutes and spreads the stinging cells still on your skin, said Philip Swart, the medical director at Altezza Travel, a tour operator in Tanzania. Instead, there are safer, science-backed treatments available."
""The right step is vinegar," Swart said. "It neutralizes the nematocysts, the microscopic stinging capsules, and stops more venom from firing." Swart, who has spent 18 years working in emergency medicine, said travelers should rinse with seawater instead of freshwater if vinegar isn't available. That's because freshwater can cause the stinging cells to discharge even more. Seawater keeps the jellyfish's stinging capsules inert."
"Another important step is removing the tentacles with tweezers or the edge of a card, Swart said. People should not touch them with bare fingers because the capsules can still fire upon contact and you don't want the venom to transfer onto your hands. In general, acting quickly is key since the pain can be sharp and overwhelming within the first few seconds."
Urine does not relieve jellyfish stings and can worsen the situation by diluting and spreading stinging cells on the skin. Vinegar neutralizes nematocysts, the microscopic stinging capsules, and prevents additional venom release. If vinegar is unavailable, rinsing with seawater is recommended because freshwater can trigger further discharge of stinging cells. Tentacles should be removed carefully with tweezers or the edge of a card, avoiding bare-finger contact to prevent additional stings. Quick action is important, as pain intensifies rapidly. Watch for spreading swelling, breathing difficulty, or sudden dizziness, which indicate the need for immediate medical attention. Some jellyfish, such as the Australian box jellyfish, are extremely venomous.
Read at Travel + Leisure
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