What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)
What is Coral Sting? (Definition/Background Information)
- Corals are tiny marine creatures (few mm to cm in size) that live in colonies and form the coral reefs. These are tropical creatures that generally live on shallow waters, since they require sunlight for food. Some are found in deep sea (cold) waters too
- Corals are soft-bodied hydra-like shape animals with tentacles and mouth; they are related to sea anemones. The tentacles are used to kill or immobilize prey and contain stingers (nematocysts or stinging threads). They carry venom; and more the contact area with the tentacles, the greater is the quantity of venom released
- Some species are venomous to human beings, but are not commonly lethal. The venomous species include the fire corals (not a true coral), which is found mostly in the Caribbean ocean
- Contact with humans occurs mostly during deep sea diving (accidently), especially among coral reef divers. Coral do not attack humans, but can inflict painful stings with the release of venom, when they are handled. This may cause an allergic shock
- Some Coral Stings may have mild symptoms, while others have severe symptoms. The severity of signs and symptoms depends on the species of coral, the amount of toxin injected, and also on the reaction of the human body to the toxin
- Immediate medical attention has to be sought in case of severe stings. The treatment would involve removal of the spines, washing the affected area, and use of medications (topical antibiotics and painkillers). The prognosis is generally good with treatment in a majority of cases
Who gets Coral Sting? (Age and Sex Distribution)
- Any individual exposed to corals are vulnerable to its sting
- Both males and females are affected and there is no gender bias observed
- Coral are marine creatures found mostly in the tropics. Different species are found in different parts of the world
What are the Risk Factors for Coral Sting? (Predisposing Factors)
The risk factors identified for Coral Stings include:
- Deep sea divers
- Coral reef divers
- Picking up corals with bare hands
- Keeping them as pets in aquariums (exotic collection)
- Walking barefoot on the beach or in shallow sea water (the risk of Coral Sting owing to this factor is generally low)
- Handling dead or live coral species
It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.
Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.
What are the Causes of Coral Sting? (Etiology)
- Coral Stings release a poisonous chemical into the human skin through their spine, which can affect the human body
- Depending on the amount of poison injected, the severity of the signs and symptoms is dictated
- Not all coral species have poisonous spines and most corals are found only in the deep oceans
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Coral Sting?
The severity of signs and symptoms of Coral Sting depends on the following factors:
- The type or species of coral
- The amount of toxin injected
- The reaction of the human body to the toxin
The signs and symptoms of Coral Sting may be mild or severe and may include:
- Mild symptoms may last only for a few hours
- Local cuts and wounds (often on the legs or arms)
- Hives , rashes on the skin (red-colored welts, sometimes on large areas of the skin)
- Blister formation that fill with pus
- Severe pain and burning sensation on the area of contact
- Itching that may last for weeks (which may subside and then recur)
- Severe symptoms may be systemic and may additionally include:
- Allergic shock or reaction, in some cases
- Swollen lymph glands
- Shortness of breath
- Swollen face
- Breathing difficulties
- Muscular spasms
- Nausea and vomiting
- Unconsciousness
How is Coral Sting Diagnosed?
A Coral Sting is diagnosed through the following tools:
- A physical examination of the affected site by the physician is normally sufficient to diagnose the condition
- In addition, the symptoms exhibited by the individual may be carefully observed
- The individual may be asked to provide an account (history) of the events that occurred (what took place and how)
- Blood tests consisting of complete blood count (CBC) and electrolytes
Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.
What are the possible Complications of Coral Sting?
The complications that may arise from a Coral Sting may include:
- Anaphylaxis type allergic reaction
- Respiratory distress
- Bleeding and skin ulceration can cause secondary bacterial or fungal infections to develop
- Scarring of skin at affected area
How is Coral Sting Treated?
The treatment measures for Coral Sting may include:
- The first line of treatment is often to remove the stingers/spines by gently pulling them out with a pair of tweezers; breaking the spines must be avoided
- The use of very hot water (or sea water or vinegar) can help mitigate pain and reduce the potency of the venom
- Once the spines are removed, the affected area is washed with soap and fresh water
- Application of hydrocortisone cream
- Use of topical antihistamines (such as cortisone) for skin rashes; steroid creams are generally not helpful
- The wound is left uncovered to heal, which may permit the embedded spines to surface
- Pain relieving medications (acetaminophen) as required
- Tetanus vaccination is usually required, if it is not up to date
- In case of severe stings, it could be a medical emergency and prompt attention has to be provided. The treatment measures may include:
- CPR may be provided as necessary, breathing assistance
- Stabilizing the blood pressure
- Pain control medications, steroids
- Proper follow-up care and check-ups may be required, especially to monitor for any signs of infection
Note: It is always important to call the local emergency helpline number (911 in the US) without any delay.
How can Coral Sting be Prevented?
The following factors may be considered to reduce the incidence of Coral Stings:
- Do not ignore warnings of lifeguards or health officials at the beach
- Avoid making an attempt to touch or handle marine animals unnecessarily
- Wear protective clothing if you plan to swim or dive in infested areas (suitable wet skin or diver’s suit)
- Generally be aware or watchful of the waters you are in (to the extent possible)
- Wear protective footwear while walking on beach sand
- When removing stingers from the body, wear suitable protective cover (such as hand gloves); avoid removing the sting with bare hands
- Avoid rubbing the stung area with bare (unprotected) hands
- Ensure safety precautions while cleaning marine animal aquariums; wear gloves
- Marine life explorers and sea adventurers are required to carry marine first aid kit
Note: Currently, there is no anti-venom available for Coral Stings.
What is the Prognosis of Coral Sting? (Outcomes/Resolutions)
- The prognosis of Coral Sting is generally good with effective treatment, since a majority of the cases are mild
- However, severe stings combined with delayed treatment may be life-threatening
Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Coral Sting:
The calcified skeletal structure of corals can also cause scrapes and cuts.
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