Toxic effect of contact with sea anemone, accidental (unintentional) digital illustration

Toxic effect of contact with sea anemone, accidental (unintentional) Save

ICD-10 code: T63.631

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

What is the Toxic Effect of Contact with Sea Anemone?

Sea anemones are beautiful marine creatures that are often found in coral reefs or rocky coastlines. They are colorful and have long, waving tentacles that make them appear like flowers. But, they are also known for their toxic effects on humans. Contact with sea anemone, even accidental, can cause severe discomfort and pain.

How Does Contact with Sea Anemone Happen?

People who spend time in the ocean, especially snorkelers and divers, are most likely to come into contact with sea anemones. Accidental contact can happen when a person accidentally touches or bumps into a sea anemone while swimming or exploring the ocean floor. Even if a person does not touch the sea anemone directly, the tentacles can still release toxins into the water, causing harm to the unsuspecting swimmer.

Symptoms of Sea Anemone Contact
  1. Sharp pain and burning sensation in the affected area
  2. Redness and swelling around the contact area
  3. Itching and numbness
  4. Nausea and vomiting
  5. Dizziness and difficulty breathing

The symptoms of sea anemone contact can be very severe, especially if the person is allergic to the toxin. In rare cases, it can even lead to anaphylactic shock, which is a life-threatening condition. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these symptoms after contact with a sea anemone.

How to Treat Sea Anemone Contact

If you have come into contact with a sea anemone, the first thing to do is to rinse the affected area with vinegar or saltwater. This will help to neutralize the toxin and prevent further harm. If the pain and discomfort persist, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers or antihistamines to alleviate the symptoms. However, if the symptoms are severe, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Preventing Sea Anemone Contact
  • Wear protective clothing and gloves when swimming or diving in areas where sea anemones are present.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid touching or getting too close to sea anemones.
  • If you see a sea anemone while swimming or diving, swim away slowly and carefully to avoid accidental contact.

    • By following these simple precautions, you can enjoy the beauty of sea anemones without putting yourself at risk of their toxic effects.

    Diagnosis Codes for Toxic effect of contact with sea anemone, accidental (unintentional) | T63.631

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