A mum has warned beachgoers taking advantage of the hot weather to beware after she ended up badly stung from a dip in the sea. Kate Lally had a close call with a number of jellyfish during a walk on a beach yesterday, and it brought back memories of her injuries last summer.
Kate, an ECHO reporter, said she was stung on her arms and legs by jellyfish within minutes of entering the water last year. Her right arm was stung first, then both upper legs. She followed NHS guidance and the stings cleared several days after the painful ordeal.
NHS guidance states: "Do not use vinegar, and do not pee on the sting". Ice packs should also be avoided, and you shouldn't touch any spines in the sting with your bare hands, or cover or close the wound.
Kate said she visited the beach again this week and almost stood on another jellyfish. She said: "After being stung so badly last summer I am always careful when I go now, but this one was almost at the bottom of the dune when you first enter the beach, nowhere near the sea. I didn't think I'd need to be on the lookout for them so far from the water and I very nearly stood on it.
"I was in agony last time and I dread to think what would happen if a little one stood on a jellyfish."
A spokesperson for the National Trust said last summer: "During the summer months jellyfish can often be spotted in the sea around the UK." They added: "..you might spot varieties like the harmless barrel jellyfish, or the compass jellyfish that can give you a painful sting.
"Although most jellyfish found in the UK do not cause serious harm, we advise anyone stung by a jellyfish to seek medical attention. You can avoid jellyfish stings by staying alert for the sight of them in the water, as well as on the beach. We also recommend swimming shoes for anyone taking a dip in the sea."
What to do if you are stung according to NHS advice:
- 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
You may also need medical assistance. If you are concerned, contact NHS 111.
