Sea urchins have flat or globe shaped bodies and are covered in spines. They are found in oceans worldwide, but are more likely to be present in warmer regions. [1] X Research source Sea urchins lurk in rocky parts of the water and will sting if threatened. Most people get stung when they accidentally step on an urchin. [2] X Research source You can successfully manage most stings on your own. However, if you have difficulty breathing, nausea, chest pain, or signs of infection like redness and pus you should seek care immediately. [3] X Research source You should also seek medical care if you were stung around a joint, as the spines may require surgical removal in such cases. [4] X Research source
Sea urchins release venom through their spines and pedicellaria. Spines produce puncture wounds and can stay in skin. They should be removed immediately in the event of an attack. [6] X Research source The pedicellaria are seizing organs found between the spine that latch onto a target when an urchin is attacked. They should also be removed quickly after being stung. [7] X Research source
Use tweezers to pull out the protruding ends of large spines. Move slowly so that the spines does not break off, as medical treatment will be needed if this occurs. [8] X Research source Hot wax can also be used to remove spines, if they are particularly deep and cannot be removed with a razor. Apply hot wax to the area, let dry, and remove. The spines should be pulled out with the wax. Longterm medical problems can occur if spines are not removed properly. If you’re not sure you got all the spines out yourself, see a doctor.
The pedicellaria can be removed by applying shaving cream to the infected area and then scraping it off with a razor. [9] X Research source Be gentle with how you handle the razor as not to cause further distress to the wound.
This will be uncomfortable as your wound is still sore and will sting to the touch. Be prepared to work through the pain or have someone assist you if you’re worried about not being able to tolerate the discomfort. [10] X Research source You can also use hydrogen peroxide or betadine solutions instead of soap. [11] X Research source Rinse the area thoroughly with clean drinking water after washing. [12] X Research source
You can submerge the wound in hot water. The water should be hot to the touch but not boiling. Keep the wound in the water for at least an hour or as long as you can tolerate the heat. This will help ease the pain and dissolve any remaining spines. You can add Epsom salt or magnesium sulfate compound to the water to aid in this process. [14] X Research source Some people try a hot vinegar bath. Mix a small amount of vinegar in a tub of hot water and soak for 20 to 40 minutes. You can also add Epsom salt to the water, as this will help the remaining spines dissolve.
Place a vinegar soaked cloth over the wound and wrap it in plastic wrap. Tape the plastic wrap on so it stays secure. Keep the dressing loose, however. Remember, you don’t want to close up the wound completely as the remaining spines need to work their way out.
Topical antibiotic ointment, available at most drug stores and supermarkets, should be applied on the wound. While this should be done in any case as a precaution, it’s especially important if you notice redness or swelling. [15] X Research source Tylenol and ibuprofen are good choices to manage the pain. You should take the recommended dose every 4 to 8 hours until symptoms lessen. [16] X Research source
Signs of infection include redness, pus, swelling of the affected area or of the lymph glands that drain the affected area (neck, underarms, or groin), or heat. [17] X Research source Seek medical care if signs of infection do not clear up within a few days. If you develop any breathing problems or chest pain, the infection may be severe and you should go to your nearest emergency room. [18] X Research source
