MANILA, Philippines — Swimmers' itch is an itchy rash caused by certain parasites that normally live on waterfowl and freshwater snails.
On warm, sunny days — especially in calm freshwater lakes or ponds — these parasites can be released into the water. During your swim, these parasites might burrow into your skin, where they cause the swimmers' itch rash. But, humans aren't suitable hosts for these parasites, so the parasites soon die.
Although uncomfortable, swimmers' itch is usually short-lived. The rash of swimmers' itch, , typically clears up on its own within a few days.
Symptoms
Swimmers' itch is characterized by:
Itching that may begin in just an hour or two, or as long as two days after swimming.
A red, raised rash.
Swimmers' itch usually affects only exposed skin — skin not covered by swimsuits, wet suits, or waders. The rash may appear up to 48 hours after swimming in infested water, but you may also experience itching without ever developing a rash. If you're exposed to the same parasites again, the rash might become more severe.
When to see a doctor
Talk to your doctor if you have a rash after swimming that lasts more than one week. If you notice pus at the rash site, consult your doctor. You might be referred to a doctor who specializes in skin conditions (dermatologist).
The cause of swimmers' itch is an allergic reaction to parasites that migrate from snails to ducks, geese, gulls, swans, muskrats, and beavers. The parasites then return to water through infected feces and eggs.
Swimmers' itch isn't contagious from person to person. You don't need to worry about "catching" swimmers' itch from someone who has the itchy rash.
Prevention
To reduce the risk of swimmers' itch:
Choose swimming spots carefully. Avoid swimming in areas where swimmers' itch is a known problem or signs warn of possible contamination. Also avoid swimming or wading in marshy areas where snails are commonly found.
Avoid the shoreline, if possible. If you're a strong swimmer, head to deeper water for your swim because you may be more likely to develop swimmers' itch if you spend a lot of time in shallow water.
Rinse after swimming. Rinse exposed skin with fresh water immediately after leaving the water, then vigorously dry your skin with a towel. Launder your swimsuits often. You might even alternate between different swimsuits.
Skip the bread crumbs. Don't feed birds on docks or near swimming areas.
Take care of your pool. If you have a pool, keep it well maintained and chlorinated.
source: mb.com.ph
