h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

My daughter is just back from her 'world tour' with a graze on her leg which won't heal properly and keeps flaring-up. She got this while snorkelling somewhere in the Pacific. It doesn't seem to be infected - just a bit inflamed.

Does anyone have any info or advice please?

Yeah, make sure she doesn't go back there again.

Thanks, obvious really though, isn't it?

I can't give any insight into why its flaring up unfortunately (except maybe its become more of an excema thing due to allergy? ) but I can recommend using Lavender essential oil to take it down and heal it.

I would make sure it isn't infected, go to the doc and get some tests done. Just in case. Until later....
BCNU - Crescent

From what you describe, it sounds like a fire coral cut, which can (but not always) create a persistent reaction.

http://www.emedicine.com/WILD/topic24.htm has some medical info.

I've had that kinda persistent inflammation after brushing against things while snorkeling. It can last for weeks if not treated. Try hydrocortizone cream and see if it gets better. If not, take her to the doctor. Some corals excrete toxins which aren't nearly as painful as fire coral but still cause a reaction, or it could be that she has some parasites burried in her skin and causing the inflammation. Here in Florida we have sea lice, which are tiny jellyfish larva that sting when squashed. It could be something like that.

Thanks guys - that's been really helpful. My daughter is really impressed by the fact that you can ask a question on here and get so much useful info back - I've been telling her for months that this is a fab site with wonderful people.
to get some hydrocortisone cream.......

All I can say is coral cuts are apparently notorious for getting infected.