Jellyfish Stings
Background
- Most jellyfish in Irish waters are non-toxic. Summer 2013 was an exception - Portuguese Man-of War appeared.
- Venom stored in nematocysts (cellular capsules called) on tentacles.
- Nematocysts fire tiny harpoon with thread of venom.
- Nematocysts fire even after jellyfish dead (on a beach).
- Lions Mane is (or Man-of-War) the most venomous jellyfish in Irish waters:
- Mostly northern Irish sea
- Up to 80cm in diameter
- Toxin may be very painful
Management of sting
- Protect yourself
- Remove the victim from the water.
- Remove any attached tentacles with a gloved hand, stick or towel.
- Do NOT rub the affected area (releases more venom)
- Rinse the affected area with vinegar (or sea water - not fresh water)
- Apply heat (water or a heat pack) max 45°c.
- Xylocaine spray (4% or 2.5%) eases symptoms and reduced further toxin release from nemocysts.
- Do not use other washes (urine, alcohol) as these can worsen toxin release.
- All with airway, constitutional or eye symptoms should attend an emergency department.
- Detailed slit lamp exam is required in eye injuries.
- Later relief may be gained from hot water (denatures remaining venom).
Content by Dr Íomhar O' Sullivan 13/09/2010. Last review Dr ÍOS 28/05/21.