Jellyfish stings and other marine life hazards are something to think about before you go swimming in the ocean. There is a variety of marine life that can sting or bite causing a painful reaction. However, there are a few exceptions that can be life threatening.

Here Are Some of the Different Types of Marine Life to Be Aware of:

Jellyfish

Box Jellyfish

Portuguese Man of War

Stingray

Sea Anemone

Sea Urchins

Moray Eels

Coral

Cone shell

Sharks

Symptoms of a Sting or Bite:

Pain

Redness

Swelling

Cramps

Fever

Dizziness

Difficulty breathing

Nausea or vomiting

Paralysis

First Aid for Jellyfish Stings

Calm the patient.

Stingers should not be removed without protecting the hands, gloves should be worn.

To reduce the toxins, take a handful of wet sand from the ocean and vigorously rub it on the affected area. Allow the salt water to stay on the area. Do not use fresh water.

To neutralize the poison, pour vinegar over the affected area (do not use vinegar for a Portuguese Man of War sting, use salt water).

To neutralize and eliminate pain, pour ammonia over the affected area.

Put aloe vera gel on the sting to soothe the skin.

Do not raise the affected area above the heart.

Do not give any medication to the patient without medical advice.

Exercise should be avoided.

Some medical professionals suggest pouring urine on the sting or bite to neutralize the toxin.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention:

The patient has difficulty breathing.

Bleeding can not be stopped.

A sting from a Box Jellyfish is more serious and an anti-venom may need to be administered.

The bite or sting occurs on the face, chest or groin area.

If the patient is experiencing a severe allergic reaction.

Coral Cuts or Scrapes

Skin infections may occur if small pieces of coral, other debris or bacteria get into the wound. To treat coral wounds, remove all visible debris and clean the wound thoroughly and apply an antiseptic or antibiotic cream to keep the wound from becoming infected. Seek medical attention if the wound becomes red, has a foul smell, develops pus or the patient develops a fever.

Make sure your tetanus shot is up to date.