What Is Swimmers Itch?
Swimmers itch is a short-term immune reaction occurring in the skin of humans that have been infected by water-borne schistosomatidae.
Swimmer’s itch is known to affect only exposed skin — skin not covered by swimsuits, wet suits or waders
Causes Of Swimmers Itch:
The schistosomatidae genera most commonly associated with swimmer’s itch in humans are Trichobilharzia and Gigantobilharzia.
However, swimmer’s itch can also be caused by schistosome parasites of non-avian vertebrates, such as Schistosomatium douthitti, which infects snails and rodents.
Other bacteira reported to cause the reaction include Bilharziella polonica and Schistosoma bovis. In marinehabitats, especially along the coasts, swimmer’s itch can occur as well.
Symptoms Of Swimmers Itch:
The more one swims in infected or contaminated the water, the higher are the risks of developing swimmer’s itch.
The following symptoms are exhibited:
- Within minutes to days after swimming in contaminated water, one may experiencetingling, burning, or itching of the skin.
- Small reddish pimplesappear within 12 hours.
- Pimplesmay develop into small blisters.
- Itching may last up to a week or more, but will gradually go away.
Diagnosis Of Swimmers Itch:
There are no specific tests to diagnose swimmer’s itch.
Therefore, diagnosing it is challenging and depends upon the doctor’s instinct and deduction based upon case histories.
Treatment Of Swimmers Itch:
Generally, the itch fades away on its own after running its course.
Once the reaction has occurred, the skin should be lightly rinsed with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and then coated with calamine lotion.
An antihistaminic or mild corticosteroid cream (1% hydrocortisone) can also be beneficial.
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By : Natural Health News
