In Minnesota, especially during the summer, many have experienced the discomfort that comes after swimming in a lake. It’s almost that feeling of wanting to escape your own skin.
On Monday, Burnsville city officials declared that Crystal Beach would be closed for the day to treat the area for swimmer’s itch.
Many of us have fond memories of summer days spent by the water, but don’t let the pesky swimmer’s itch dampen your spirits! It’s worth understanding what causes it and how to keep it at bay.
What is swimmer’s itch?
According to the Mayo Clinic, swimmer’s itch, or cercarial dermatitis, manifests as an itchy, red rash, most often after swimming in fresh lakes or ponds, though it can occur in saltwater too.
This rash arises from an allergic response to tiny parasites carried by ducks, geese, and other birds, as well as some mammals and snails. These parasites’ eggs end up in the water via animal droppings, where they infect snails, growing until the snail releases them back into the water.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) explains that once these parasites are out, they burrow into hosts—whether animal or human—leading to that unpleasant allergic reaction.
Here’s some good news: the rash usually isn’t permanent, since the parasites don’t stick around long in humans. How bad the rash gets can vary based on individual sensitivity, but the DNR notes that repeated exposure can make you more sensitive each time.
How can I avoid swimmer’s itch?
There are plenty of strategies to help keep this annoyance from ruining your day at the lake.
Here are some tips from the DNR:
- Before swimming, use waterproof sunscreen or oils to create a barrier against the parasites.
- Try to swim away from the shore, where the organisms are more plentiful in warm, shallow water.
- After getting out, dry off quickly since water left on your skin can attract those pesky parasites.
- Keep waterfowl away from your dock and shoreline if possible.
What should I do if I get swimmer’s itch?
For relief, the DNR suggests:
- Applying an anti-itch lotion or corticosteroid cream.
- Soaking in a bath with Epsom salts, baking soda, or colloidal oatmeal.
- Using cool compresses on the affected area.
- Resist the urge to scratch, as it could lead to an infection.
If you’re looking for further details on swimmer’s itch and prevention techniques, check out the resources from the DNR, Mayo Clinic, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
