Fun fact:
Some jellyfish cells are cnidocytes, or stinging cells, which contain an organelles called nematocysts that release venom. These cnidocytes are spread along jellyfish tentacles. Any change in the balance of solutes (concentration of salt) outside the cnidocyte aggravates the nematocysts and causes them to release more venom, worsening the stinging.
Since urine can have differing concentrations of salt, peeing on a jellyfish sting can cause the pain to worsen. Using freshwater to rinse the sting will also cause more pain.
However, with most stings (but depending on the type of jellyfish), rinsing the area with salt water, vinegar, or 5% acetic acid can help deactivate the nematocysts, and then any attached bits of tentacle can be removed. :)
I got stung by one and the sting ran all the way up the length of my right arm. I looked like a mutant or something, and that shit itches like hell after a few days
Some jellyfish cells are cnidocytes, or stinging cells, which contain an organelles called nematocysts that release venom. These cnidocytes are spread along jellyfish tentacles. Any change in the balance of solutes (concentration of salt) outside the cnidocyte aggravates the nematocysts and causes them to release more venom, worsening the stinging.
Since urine can have differing concentrations of salt, peeing on a jellyfish sting can cause the pain to worsen. Using freshwater to rinse the sting will also cause more pain.
However, with most stings (but depending on the type of jellyfish), rinsing the area with salt water, vinegar, or 5% acetic acid can help deactivate the nematocysts, and then any attached bits of tentacle can be removed. :)