Heat, Sun, Marine Animals, Bites & Infections

After contact with a jellyfish, rinse the skin area with seawater if possible and do not rub, as this may activate additional stinging cells. Carefully remove visible tentacle remains, avoid fresh water at first and cool the area. Seek medical help immediately in case of severe pain, a pronounced skin reaction, circulatory symptoms or breathing problems. In my practice, I assess the skin reaction and advise on further treatment.

Barotrauma occurs when pressure equalization between the middle ear and the environment does not work. When descending, ensure regular, gentle pressure equalization and do not dive with a cold, sinus symptoms or a blocked nose. Ear pain, a feeling of pressure, reduced hearing, ringing in the ears, dizziness or sinus symptoms are warning signs. If pain occurs, stop descending and do not force pressure equalization.

Sunburn should be taken seriously because UV radiation can cause lasting skin damage. Early signs are redness, tightness, burning, warmth and sensitivity to touch. Cool the skin, avoid further sun exposure and drink enough fluids. After-sun products can help. Blisters, severe pain, fever, circulatory symptoms or extensive reactions should be assessed by a doctor.

A common bite or sting usually causes limited redness, itching and mild swelling that subsides within a few days. Warning signs of infection are increasing redness, marked swelling, warmth, throbbing pain, pus or spread beyond the bite site. Fever, chills or feeling unwell should also be taken seriously. Cool the area, do not scratch and monitor the course.

Ticks also occur in Mallorca, especially in wooded areas, tall grass and on hiking trails. A small area of redness immediately after removal is usually harmless. Warning signs are increasing or ring-shaped redness, fever, flu-like symptoms, headache, muscle or joint pain and unusual tiredness. Remove the tick early with tweezers or a tick card and, if symptoms occur, keep it if possible.

Sea urchin injuries regularly occur along rocky coastal sections. Remaining spine fragments can cause pain, inflammation and foreign-body reactions. Carefully remove superficial spines with tweezers, but do not poke deeply. Clean and disinfect the area and watch for redness, swelling, warmth, pus or more severe pain. Deep spines or signs of infection should be examined by a doctor.

Even small dog bites should be taken seriously because bacteria can be introduced deep into the tissue. Clean the wound with clean water for several minutes and disinfect thoroughly. Warning signs are increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus or fever. Depending on depth and location, antibiotics may be useful. Checking tetanus protection is important.

Cat bites often appear harmless, but pointed teeth can carry bacteria deep into the tissue. Infections can develop within just a few hours. Watch for increasing pain, redness, swelling or restricted movement. Clean and disinfect early. Especially with bites to the hands or fingers, medical review and, if necessary, antibiotics are often advisable.

Fish hooks can introduce dirt, bacteria or fish residues into the wound. Remove the hook yourself only if this is easily possible and no larger structures are affected. Clean and disinfect the wound and check tetanus protection. If the hook is deep, close to tendons, joints or nerves, or if pain, swelling or redness increases, I recommend medical care.

Injuries from fish spines or bones can be painful and cause inflammation, especially if foreign-body fragments remain. Clean and disinfect carefully. Warning signs are increasing pain, swelling, redness or pus formation. If a foreign body is suspected or symptoms persist, the injury should be examined by a doctor; removal and antibiotics may be required.

Oak processionary caterpillars occur in Mallorca mainly between April and July in wooded areas, parks and oak stands. Their irritating hairs can be spread by the wind. Typical symptoms include itching, reddened skin, wheals, eye irritation, coughing or breathing difficulties. Change clothes, shower skin and hair and avoid scratching. More severe skin reactions, eye involvement or breathing difficulties should be assessed by a doctor.

Sunstroke often presents with headache, nausea, dizziness and neck pain after prolonged sun exposure. Heatstroke also involves severe exhaustion, confusion, circulatory problems or a clearly elevated body temperature. Move the affected person into the shade immediately, cool them and provide fluids. Act quickly, especially in children, older people and athletes.

Muscle cramps are often caused by fluid or electrolyte loss and unfamiliar exertion. Stay calm, avoid frantic movements and gently stretch the affected muscle. After swimming, take in fluids and electrolytes. Recurrent cramps may indicate deficits in training, nutrition or fluid intake.