>Most of the symptoms associated with envenomation are due to toxic effects of the venom, but allergic reactions have been observed. Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that may involve difficulty breathing, low blood pressure and other severe symptoms. Treatment includes administering epinephrine, an antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), oxygen and corticosteroids. (Note: Epinephrine and corticosteroids must be prescribed by a physician and should be administered only by trained individuals.) Anyone suspected of having a serious reaction, whether a direct effect of the venom or an allergic response to it, should be treated immediately by a physician.

>hard way not to handle marine life.
>Immediately immerse starfish puncture wounds in hot water to tolerance (generally about 113°F). A rescuer should test the temperature to avoid scalding the injured person. If the spines can be easily grasped without fragmentation, they should be removed and the wounds then washed with soap and water. Wounds should not be closed but may be dressed and bandaged. Puncture wounds are especially prone to infection, so treating physicians will consider antibiotic therapy, particularly if damage to deeper tissues is suspected or if the victim has an impaired immune system.
>Sea urchin punctures may be treated similarly, although it is often difficult to achieve thorough removal of all spine fragments. The long, thin and brittle spines are likely to break off inside wounds, making identification and extraction challenging. Purple or black discoloration of the skin at the puncture site does not necessarily mean that a fragment is still embedded in the tissue. This "tattoo" may result from dye that has rubbed off the surface of the spine. If the discoloration persists after 24-48 hours, a retained spine fragment should be suspected. Spines or fragments penetrating deeply into tissues or joints should be removed by a physician.
>The venom from certain species is highly toxic and may cause serious illness or even death in humans. However, most cone snail stings are about as severe as a bee sting. Larger species may cause more significant symptoms, including intense localized pain, numbness and tingling, swelling and possibly vomiting. Onset of symptoms may be delayed for a few hours. Severe cases may involve muscle paralysis, changes in vision and breathing failure.
>If the sting occurs on an arm or leg, a pressure-immobilization bandage should be applied. Place a thick, two- or three-inch square cloth or gauze pad directly over the sting. Hold this dressing firmly in place by applying an elastic bandage around the dressing and the limb. Wrap tightly enough to press the dressing into the skin but not so tight as to impair arterial circulation. Check for normal sensation and color in the fingers or toes to ensure that circulation is adequate. Continue wrapping the bandage around the entire limb, and apply a splint to keep the limb immobilized. Check the fingers or toes frequently on the way to the hospital to make sure that swelling has not impaired circulation.
>If a bite from a blue-ringed octopus occurs on an arm or leg, apply the pressure-immobilization technique described for cone snail envenomations. Victims of blue-ringed octopus bites may experience paralysis and difficulty breathing; rescuers should be prepared to provide supplemental oxygen and prolonged rescue breathing, which might save the victim's life. Despite progressive and complete paralysis, victims may remain conscious. Definitive care by a qualified physician is critical.
>Marine-invertebrate envenomations are frequently painful, and some species have the potential to cause serious symptoms, even death. Care must be exercised while sharing the environment with these creatures. In the event of a significant envenomation, careful employment of the techniques described, an effective emergency plan and knowledge of local medical resources may be lifesaving.
>© Alert Diver — Spring 2011