Swimmer’s itch

Overview

A rash known as “swimmer’s itch” might develop after swimming or wading in the open water. Although you can get it in saltwater, it is most frequently contracted after being in freshwater ponds and lakes. It is also known as cercarial dermatitis.

A reaction to very small parasites in the water that burrow into your skin while you’re swimming or wading in warm, calm water commonly results in swimmer’s itch. These parasites quickly perish since they can’t thrive in humans.

A rash and pimples which appear reddish are the major symptoms of swimmer’s itch. In a few days, swimmer’s itch typically goes away on its own. You can use medication to reduce itching till then. 

Symptoms

An itching rash that resembles pimples or blisters is one of the swimmer’s itch symptoms. After swimming or wading in contaminated water, symptoms may appear right away or take up to two days to appear.

Typically, the rash only affects exposed skin that is not protected by waders, wetsuits, or swimwear. Each time you come into contact with the parasites that cause swimmer’s itch, your sensitivity to it may rise.

If the rash you get after swimming lasts longer than a week, consult your doctor. Consult with your doctor if you see pus with rash. A dermatologist (a doctor who focuses on skin issues) may be recommended for you.

Causes

An allergic reaction to parasites that penetrate your skin from warm water is what causes swimmer’s itch. Geese, ducks, and muskrats are just a few of the animals that have these parasites when they reside close to ponds and lakes.

Animal manure is how the parasites’ eggs enter the water. The young parasites develop in a species of shallow–water snail after hatching. The parasites are subsequently discharged by the snails into the water, where they might infect people.

Swimmer’s itch cannot spread from one person to another.

Risk factors

The following factors can raise the risk of swimmer’s itch:

• Swimming in water that has specific parasites.
• Skipping using a towel to dry off after leaving the water.

Having a high susceptibility to the parasites that cause swimmer’s itch.