Despite what you might have heard or seen on TV shows like "Friends," peeing on a jellyfish sting is actually a bad idea that can make the pain worse. About 44-percent of people think urine helps with jellyfish stings, but doctors say this is wrong and can cause more problems. When a jellyfish stings you, tiny barb-like things called nematocysts shoot into your skin and release venom. The problem with urine is that it can trigger more of these nematocysts to fire, which means more venom gets released into your skin. This makes the sting hurt more, not less. Instead of peeing on the sting, doctors say to get out of the water first, then carefully remove any tentacles with tweezers or a credit card. After that, soak the area in hot water for 20 minutes to help break down the venom.
Lend a Helping Can raises money for 12 New England charitable agencies to feed the Needy and Homeless.
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