Although summer is coming to an end, there is still a stretch to enjoy the beach and precisely what you want is for that time to be fun, safe and calm as well. However, we are not exempt from something unforeseen happening, among these, some that have to do with an unpleasant encounter with marine nature.

One of the most frequent is the bite of the sea lice. So, if you find yourself in a situation like this, you don't know how to act and you have no idea what this is, keep reading because we explain everything about it, from what it is to how to prevent its bites. It does not matter if it happens to you or to your little ones, it is always better to be prepared, not to be alarmed, but yes, to know how to handle the situation.

What is a sea lice?

The first thing you should know is that sea lice are like small crustaceans that live in the ocean and therefore in seas around the world, so it is easy for them to come into contact with the skin of bathers, which can cause skin itchiness, irritation and pain. What with more reason, for children must be unbearable.

These tiny organisms are similar to a flea, although they can have different sizes, yes, it is not usually larger than 2 centimeters, they swim very fast and feed on organic remains found in the water.

One thing you should keep in mind is that sea lice are spread by direct head-to-head contact, although they do not jump or fly, it is normal for children to put their heads together and the lice spread there, so it is important to wash well to avoid leaving them in the hair and after washing, comb.

Another important aspect is to identify what the sea lice looks like, that is, what it looks like, so keep in mind that it has a flattened body and seems to have a small shell, it also has small antennae, so if You see them in the water, get out of there, remember that prevention is preferable and avoiding contact is undoubtedly the best and most effective way of prevention.

Now that you are clear about what a sea lice is, it is important that you know if it bites you and that is why you must take into account the symptoms.

Symptoms of the bite

A sea lice bite mainly causes the following symptoms (you should know that the bites can appear from the same moment to about two weeks later):

Intense itching

It usually causes itching in the area where it itches, this can be constant, not stop and get worse.

Redness of the skin

When sea lice bite, the skin becomes red, it is also common for it to become inflamed and much more sensitive than normal, any rubbing being annoying.

Bumps

It is normal that when a sea lice bites, welts and small bumps appear, very similar as if you had been bitten by a mosquito, so if they appear, check carefully where it comes from

Pain

These bites usually hurt and cause, in addition to itching, general discomfort, that is, a feeling of decay.

Sea Lice Treatment

If you are enjoying the beach and suddenly feel this discomfort, you can follow the steps below to reduce the discomfort or to treat the bite:

1. The first thing is to wash the affected area well , preferably with fresh water and soap. Rinse well, never leave soap or any chemical product, also dry yourself or your child well. Humidity is also not good for the skin.
2. Apply an antiseptic : Look for one in a pharmacy, which is soft and with which you can prevent any additional infection. Check its components well so that none of them cause allergies.
3. Hydrocortisone cream : This type of cream is generally available over the counter, it helps prevent itching, inflammation and red skin, also check it at your pharmacy.
4. Consult a specialist : If you see that you do not improve, or that the itching increases, it is best to consult a doctor, it will surely help you heal soon and feel better.

The important thing is not to let the bite take advantage, that is, to monitor and treat it. If these steps are followed, the inflammation and symptoms will surely only last a few days at most.

Consequences of the bite

Although sea lice bites are not serious, if not treated in time they can cause secondary infections. That is why care is important, since itching can trigger itching and therefore make the skin more sensitive and prone to minor injuries.

Where are there sea lice?

As we already told you, sea lice are found in the ocean, that is, on beaches around the world. Although you can usually see more in warm, shallow water, this is why it's best to be vigilant and if you see a lot of sea lice in an area, don't go in.

What does the sea lice eat?

Sea lice feed on organic compounds in the water, which are generally decomposed. Although they bite, they do not feed on the blood of humans or other marine animals.

How to prevent sea lice bite?

Although no one is exempt from this type of bite when vacationing at sea, there are a few simple steps you can take to prevent sea lice from biting you or your little ones. Take note:

Suitable bathing suits

Wear a full-body bathing suit, the more covered the better, especially if you are going to swim in waters where you know there are this type of organism. Remember that there is a wide variety of modern, beautiful and original suits, but that give you the necessary protection.

Use sun protection

This puts a film on the skin that protects it not only from the sun, but also from small organisms in the water (this is mild or moderate). And even wear glasses to protect yourself from the sun, even if it has nothing to do with protecting yourself from sea lice bites. This is something extremely important and Kiddus understands it, that's why he advises you and recommends his  sunglasses for children.

A good choice in terms of style, are the sun rayz sunglasses, also, they protect them from ultraviolet rays.

Use insect repellent

After sunscreen, it is important that you use insect repellent, this helps prevent them from biting, that is, although it does not guarantee it, it does reduce the risk.

Avoid them

If you know you are going to swim where these organisms are present, avoid them. That is, do not go there, it is not necessary to expose yourself or your little ones to a hard time, remember that the discomfort can last a moment, but that moment can damage the walk.

Always, whenever you get out of the sea, take a shower with fresh water , so you eliminate any sea lice. Use soap and fresh water, never get dressed without taking a good shower first, and don't wear wet clothes after showering either.

Conclusion

Sea lice are usually very annoying, so it is best that you have all the information about it in order to know what to do if they bite you, in addition to recognizing the symptoms of these bites and having everything on hand in case you get them. suffer them so that you do not damage the holidays and you can enjoy with your children safely.

So remember, if you are planning to vacation in places with seas, such as going to the Riviera Maya with kids you must inform yourself and take care of the sea lice.