Causes and risk factors
As the name suggests the complaints are caused due bite of a jellyfish. Through this sting the venom is injected into the skin. This venom causes development of symptoms.
Clinical presentation:
The symptoms can range from mild to severe form. The symptoms can be localized or involved various systems of the body. Immediately after a jellyfish sting the patient experiences a severe pain at the site of affection. Pricking type of pain is felt. The affected site becomes red and is swollen, reddish brown eruptions are seen, and along with it a marked burning sensation is felt. Tingling and numbness also occurs. Fever, nausea, vomiting, Sweating, difficulty in breathing, headache, pain muscles and joints are the symptoms seen in severe cases. It can also cause some serious complications like loss of consciousness. In some people it can also lead to anaphylaxis.
Investigations:
Diagnosis can be done on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patients (i.e. bite by a jellyfish) and the physical examination carried out by the doctor. The detail history taken from the patient will help the doctor to evaluate the cause. However there is no exact diagnostic test for confirming the jellyfish sting. Routine blood test and other investigations can be recommended by the consultant.
Treatment:
Treatment consists of washing the affected area with saltwater and soap. Vinegar in water can also be used for cleaning the affected site. A soothing ointment can be applied. Pain relieving medications are advised.Anti histamines and steroid medicines are given. In severe cases the patient is hospitalized and is kept under medical observation.
Other modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
