From the Guidelines
Treatment for swimmer's itch primarily focuses on relieving symptoms while the rash heals on its own, typically within a week. For immediate relief, apply cool compresses to the affected areas or take cool baths with baking soda, colloidal oatmeal, or Epsom salts. Over-the-counter antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) can reduce itching, while calamine lotion, hydrocortisone cream (0.5-1%), or anti-itch creams containing pramoxine or menthol provide topical relief. Avoid scratching to prevent secondary infections. If the rash is severe or widespread, a healthcare provider might prescribe stronger corticosteroid creams or oral steroids. Prevention is also important: always shower and towel dry vigorously after swimming in lakes or ponds, avoid shallow water areas where snails may be present, and apply waterproof sunscreen which may provide some barrier protection. Swimmer's itch occurs when microscopic parasites from waterfowl penetrate human skin but cannot complete their lifecycle, causing an allergic reaction that manifests as a red, itchy rash, as noted in the context of infections and infestations that can cause pruritus 1. Some key considerations for managing pruritus include the use of topical treatments and oral antihistamines, with the goal of reducing itching and preventing complications such as secondary infections. In general, the approach to treating swimmer's itch involves a combination of self-care measures and, if necessary, medical treatment to manage symptoms and prevent further complications. Key points to consider in the management of swimmer's itch include:
- Relief of symptoms through cool compresses, cool baths, and topical treatments
- Use of over-the-counter antihistamines for itching
- Avoidance of scratching to prevent secondary infections
- Prevention through showering and towel drying after swimming, avoiding shallow water areas, and applying waterproof sunscreen. It's also worth noting that while various studies discuss different aspects of pruritus and its management, the most relevant guidance for swimmer's itch is focused on relieving symptoms and preventing complications, as informed by the available evidence 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Uses temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to: eczema psoriasis poison ivy, oak, sumac insect bites detergents jewelry cosmetics soaps seborrheic dermatitis Directions for itching of skin irritation, inflammation, and rashes: adults and children 2 years of age and older: apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily Purpose Anti-itch
The treatment for swimmer itch is not directly mentioned in the provided drug labels. However, since swimmer itch is a type of skin irritation, hydrocortisone (TOP) can be used to temporarily relieve itching associated with minor skin irritations.
- Apply hydrocortisone (TOP) to the affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily for adults and children 2 years of age and older.
- For children under 2 years of age, ask a doctor. 2 2 2
From the Research
Treatment for Swimmer Itch
- The treatment for swimmer's itch is entirely symptomatic, with antihistamines and cortisone cream often used to alleviate the itch 3, 4.
- Cercarial dermatitis responds well to treatment with topical antihistamines or cortisone 3.
- Even without medication, the skin rash typically heals within 2-3 weeks 3.
Prevention and Risk Factors
- The effectiveness of various preventive measures, such as protective sun cream or patting the skin dry, is controversial 3.
- The use of molluscicides is definitely contraindicated due to the inoffensive nature of this dermatitis 3.
- High temperatures and sunshine increase the risk of encountering the parasite and becoming infected 5, 6.
- A wide variety of often interacting biotic and abiotic factors, as well as personal behavior, have an effect on the likelihood and severity of a human infection 7.