Have you ever been swimming in the ocean and felt like you’ve got an itchy bite? or come out in a rash?

The chances are it’s the result of what’s commonly referred to as ‘sea lice’.

In fact, it’s not ‘sea lice’ in the way fishermen might think of it – this sea lice is a marine parasite that affect fish and actually have nothing to do with the itchy rash you’ve experienced.

Example of sea lice rash, in this case predominately in area under bikini strap where sea lice have been trapped

The ‘sea lice’ that causes the ‘itchy bites’ are actually tiny little jellyfish or stinger larvae that have the same stinging cells (nematocysts) as an adult jellyfish/stingers, but because they’re only small they only affect a small area.

They tend to travel in large groups or ‘blooms’ and will be prevalent in warm summer waters – some ocean swimmers suggest you’ll encounter them when there’s lots of seaweed floating around.

They’re microscopic and transparent in water so you’ve got no chance of seeing them, the first you’ll know about it is when you start to itch.

You’ll get the worst of it where the larvae get trapped under your togs or rashie, or even your armpit where they feel trapped causing the stinging cells to fire.

The worst thing you can do is itch them, you’re best to just flush your skin in fresh water when you get out – preferably with your swimsuit removed. When drying yourself off use a patting motion rather than rubbing the affected area.

For the majority of people the itch will be the worst part, and it could be delayed and last for a few days to a week after. For some people it could get worse with a severe reaction in which case you should seek further medical assistance.

Give your swimsuit a good wash before you wear it again just to make sure all the cells have been washed out and if you’re looking for relief treatment try vinegar, various ‘itchy bite’/rash creams or antihistamines – but check with your doctor first.