Itchy, red rash after a day at the lake? What is swimmer’s itch?
By Virtual Assistant
Published On July 27, 2023
Sometimes you may bring home more than memories from a day at the lake… 
We have been seeing a lot of swimmer’s itch this year!
Swimmer’s itch (cercarial dermatitis) 
is also known as duck itch, because the main source of the parasite that causes the irritating rash is from 
. Swimmer’s itch is caused by the larvae (immature stage) of certain flatworms that can be picked up while swimming.
is also known as duck itch, because the main source of the parasite that causes the irritating rash is from . Swimmer’s itch is caused by the larvae (immature stage) of certain flatworms that can be picked up while swimming.The good news is that it is otherwise harmless to humans – we are not suitable hosts. Unfortunately, it does sometimes leave our skin red, inflamed, and intensely itchy for several days after exposure. 
Young children are especially susceptible because they often play in the warm, shallow waters where muck is stirred up by activity, circulating the parasites through the water where they search for a suitable host. 
The parasites find our skin and embed where they are soon killed by our immune response. 
Feet and legs are commonly affected, as well as other areas that have prolonged exposure to the water, like where wet bathing suits rest. 
Not everyone will develop swimmer’s itch and the reason why some individuals do and some don’t is not well understood.
The parasites find our skin and embed where they are soon killed by our immune response. Feet and legs are commonly affected, as well as other areas that have prolonged exposure to the water, like where wet bathing suits rest. Not everyone will develop swimmer’s itch and the reason why some individuals do and some don’t is not well understood.
Here are some tips to help prevent cercarial dermatitis:
1. Avoid High-Risk Areas: Research the water bodies you plan to visit and avoid those with known snail populations or recent reports of cercarial dermatitis cases.
2. Quick Showers: Take a shower or rinse off with clean water immediately after leaving the water. This can help remove any larvae before they have a chance to penetrate the skin.
3. Dry Off Thoroughly: Pat yourself dry with a towel after swimming, paying extra attention to areas where the larvae are most likely to penetrate, such as the legs, arms, and waist.
4. Use Protective Barriers: If you’re swimming in a high-risk area, consider wearing protective clothing, such as a wetsuit or swim shirt, to minimize skin exposure.
5. Children and Pets: Keep a close eye on children and pets playing in the water, as they may be more susceptible to cercarial dermatitis.
Despite preventative measures, we can’t really do anything to avoid swimmer’s itch parasites if we are enjoying time in freshwater lakes, but there are some things we can do to help calm the skin after a rash has developed.
Apply a cool compress to itchy areas
Baking soda or colloidal oatmeal baths
Pure aloe vera
Witch hazel
Apple cider vinegar, water diluted and applied with a cotton ball
Apply hypo-allergenic mild, soothing moisturizer
NO scratching as tempting as it may be! It can irritate the rash further, damage the skin, and lead to possible infectionCercarial dermatitis might be an unpleasant side effect of summer water activities, but with proper precautions and awareness, we may be able to avoid the worst of its side effects.
By understanding the risk factors, identifying high-risk areas, and taking preventive measures, you can enjoy a splashy summer without the itchy aftermath. Remember, knowledge is key to staying safe, so share this information with friends and family to ensure everyone has a fantastic and itch-free summer!
** These remedies are intended to provide temporary relief and support the healing process. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate medical advice and treatment. **
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