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What is Swimmer's Itch?
Tiny freshwater (and saltwater) parasites can occasionally cause a red skin rash in swimmers. Cercariae (larvae) of freshwater schistosomes cause schistosome cercarial dermatitis, or "swimmer's itch". Similar parasites that live in sea water can give rise to "clam digger's itch" or "sea lice." When these tiny organisms encounter swimming or wading humans, the larva burrow into the skin and die. Upon leaving the water, the persons skin will itch and develop a transient hive-like rash that subsides in several hours. Later, the symptoms recur with a red, bumpy, and itchy eruption. Since the larva cannot live in the skin, the rash will slowly regress but it may take several weeks to resolve.
Prevention is difficult, but immediate thorough washing and vigorous towel drying, and/or applying rubbing alcohol to exposed areas after leaving the water is helpful. Symptomatic treatment with steroid creams (Cortaid) can be helpful. Antihistamine medications (Benadryl) can help decrease itching. Those who may be wading or shellfishing should wear protective clothing to prevent exposure.
Hope this article will provide you information about swimmer's itch.
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