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Most stings from sea creatures in the UK are not serious and can be treated with first aid. Sometimes you may need to go to hospital.
Ask a lifeguard or someone with first aid training for help.
If help is not available:
rinse the affected area with seawater (not fresh water)
remove any spines from the skin using tweezers or the edge of a bank card
soak the area in very warm water (as hot as can be tolerated) for at least 30 minutes – use hot flannels or towels if you cannot soak it
take painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen
do not use vinegar
do not pee on the sting
do not apply ice or a cold pack
do not touch any spines with your bare hands
do not cover or close the wound
you've been stung and have:
The main symptoms of sea creature stings are intense pain where you're stung and an itchy rash.
Jellyfish and Portuguese man-of-war stings can also cause raised circular areas on the skin (welts).
look out for beach warning signs
consider wearing a wetsuit when swimming in the sea, particularly during the spring and summer
wear waterproof shoes or sandals when walking in shallow water or rocky areas
scuff or stamp your feet when walking in shallow water to make sea creatures aware you're approaching
do not touch or handle sea creatures that sting
Portuguese man-of-war.
