With the arrival of summer and vacations by the sea, the beach becomes a privileged place of relaxation. However, if we start to fear more visible enemies like the jellyfish or the physalia, a small enemy that is often ignored can spoil this serenity: the sea flea. These small crustaceans which hide in the sand can indeed inflict uncomfortable stings. And just as we don’t like to be a pantry for mosquitoes, the same goes for sea fleas. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid and treat them so you can enjoy your summer without the itch! What to do? Grandma tells you everything!
What is a sea flea? Why do they sting?
Sea fleas (also known as sand fleas or amphipods [Talitrus saltator]) are marine crustaceans that usually hide in the sand of beaches, especially in areas close to water. They are relatively small and measure between one and two centimeters with a flattened body that allows them to easily slip through the sand. Their diet consists mainly of decomposing organic matternotably algae, but some can also feed on small living organisms. On their scale, they thus play a important role in coastal ecosystems.
However, these little creatures also sometimes bite humans and animals to feed on their bodily fluids. When disturbed or attracted to body heat, they may also temporarily attach to bathers to feed. This activity is more common on beaches where sea fleas are numerous, especially in hot weather.
Are bites dangerous? What symptoms?
Rest assured! In general, sea flea bites do not present no serious danger. On the other hand, they can be very uncomfortable. When a sea flea bites, the skin can react with intense and persistent itching, redness and localized swelling. These symptoms are due to the immune system’s reaction to the venom injected by the flea. In some cases, a rash may develop, sometimes with small blisters.
Although rare, it is possible to encounter more severe allergic reactionsincluding difficulty breathing or extensive swelling, which then requires immediate medical attention.
How to avoid sea flea bites?
To reduce the risk of sea flea bites, it is advisable to adopt certain precautions. It is preferable to stay on areas of dry sandbecause sea fleas are more active in areas of damp sand. Furthermore, they are also more active in the morning and evening. If you are sensitive to sea flea bites, choose sea trips during the afternoon to be more peaceful! Also pay attention to choose a beach with little seaweed to avoid a lot of inconvenience. There will be fewer critters in the sand.
When you walk on the beach, Wearing beach shoes can additionally provide additional protection against these little beasts. Additionally, it is wise to avoid lying directly on damp or wet sand. To reduce the risk of contact, do not hesitate to sit up high, for example on a deckchair. Some also apply coconut oil which would be a good natural repellent, but be careful to protect yourself from the sun! Finally, after leaving the beach, rinse skin with fresh water (e.g. at the beach shower or with a bottle) can help remove any potentially stuck fleas. This reduces the risk of bites.
How to relieve stings? What natural remedies?
If you are bitten by a sea flea, several natural remedies can relieve symptoms. Apply a cold compress on the affected area can help reduce swelling and soothe itching. THE gel d’aloe vera is also effective thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Here you can use it alone or with the addition of one or two drops of lavender or tea tree essential oil. THE baking soda mixed with water to form a paste can also neutralize itching. For additional relief, take a lukewarm bath with oatmeal is also possible. This will indeed calm skin irritations as well as bad sunburns.
In any case, avoid scratching the bite. This may actually make the itching worse and increase the risk of infection in the bitten area. If the unpleasant symptoms do not improve or get worse, it is still better to consult a doctor to obtain appropriate treatment. In particular, monitor symptoms carefully and consult a healthcare professional if signs of infection, such as pus formation or worsening pain, appear.