First Aid for ANEMONE STINGS

Rinse the sting thoroughly with salt or fresh water to remove any adhering tentacles. Apply ice to skin for pain. For persistent itching or skin rash, try 1 percent hydrocortisone ointment four times a day, and one or two 25 milligram diphenhydramine (Benadryl) tablets every 6 hours. These drugs are sold without prescription.
 

Diphenhydramine may cause drowsiness. Don't drive, swim or surf after taking this medication.
 

Nearly every substance imaginable has been applied to anemone stings throughout the world, including manure, mustard, and figs. No studies indicate that any of these neutralize the venom. Some may be harmful.
 

Irrigate exposed eyes with copious amounts of room temperature tap water for at least 15 minutes. If vision blurs, or the eyes continue to tear, hurt, swell, or are light sensitive after irrigating, see a doctor. If a red streak develops between swollen lymph nodes and the sting, or if either area becomes red, warm and tender, see a doctor immediately. Rarely, stings cause seizures and death. Eating anemones can also cause fatalities. If pain persists, the skin rash worsens, allergic symptoms occur or a feeling of generalized illness develops, get medical help quickly.