Fire Coral: Beware of the Burn
False Coral, Real Danger
Fire corals, despite their coral-like appearance, are actually related to jellyfish. Unlike true corals, which are composed of calcium carbonate, fire corals have a protein-based skeleton.
Symptoms of a Fire Coral Cut
Contact with fire coral can cause painful stings that manifest as a red, bumpy skin rash. In severe cases, the sting can leave a scar resembling that of a scalding injury.
Treatment
If you encounter a fire coral sting, act promptly to mitigate the effects:
- Scrub the wound with soap and water.
- Flush the area with fresh water.
- Rinse the sting with acetic acid (vinegar) if it persists.
Consider consulting a physician to assess the injury's severity and determine if it's safe for you to return to diving.
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