If you’ve been cruising the Pattaya Islands recently, you might have spotted the ocean’s version of a punk rock concert – the spiky, rockstar sea urchins. Steer clear of these edgy characters; their sharp, brittle spikes are not just for show—they’ve got a venomous encore! To dodge any unplanned meet-and-greets with these underwater rockstars, keep your eyes on the sea floor, especially when wading close to the shoreline.

If you get stung by a sea urchin while on a boat, it’s important to address the injury promptly to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of infection. Sea urchin stings can be painful due to the spines injecting venom into the skin. Here’s what you can do:

1. Remain Calm:
   • Stay calm to prevent additional injury or panic.
2. Move to a Safe Location:
   • If possible, move to a stable and safe location on the boat to avoid further injury.
3. Assess the Area:
   • Examine the affected area to assess the severity of the sting.
   • Look for any visible spines and remove them with tweezers, if accessible.
   • Do not attempt to remove deeply embedded spines; seek professional medical help in such cases.
4. Rinse with Seawater:
   • Rinse the affected area with seawater to help remove any debris, such as sand or dirt.
   • Avoid using fresh water, as it can trigger the sea urchin’s venom to release.
5. Ideally Immerse the Affected area in Hot Water:
   • Immerse the affected area in hot water if possible. The heat helps to reduce pain and inactivate the venom.
   • The water should be as hot as the person can tolerate without causing burns (not exceeding 45°C).
   • Soak for at least 20-45 minutes, reheating the water if necessary.
   • If no hot water is available, immerse the affected area in soapy sea water and make way to hot water
6. Pain Relief:
   • Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to alleviate pain and inflammation.
   • Antihistamines may help reduce itching.
7. Avoid Certain Remedies:
   • Do not use urine or alcohol to clean the wound, as these substances may exacerbate the pain.
   • Although vinegar will help dissolve the spines if they are still stuck, vinegar will not relieve the pain.
8. Monitor for Signs of Infection:
   • Keep an eye on the affected area for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
   • Seek medical attention if signs of infection develop.
9. Seek Professional Medical Help:
   • If there are multiple stings, severe pain, difficulty breathing, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek emergency medical assistance.
   • If spines are deeply embedded, or if there’s any doubt about proper treatment, consult a healthcare professional.

It’s essential to prioritize your safety and take appropriate measures to address a sea urchin sting promptly. If the pain persists or if you have concerns about the severity of the injury, it is recommended to seek medical advice as soon as possible, especially when on a boat where access to medical facilities may be limited.