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[HEALTH] · Türkiye · 4 sources

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Mehmet Gökoğlu warns against incorrect lionfish sting treatment

Prof. Dr. Mehmet Gökoğlu, a faculty member at Akdeniz University, has issued a medical warning regarding the treatment of lionfish stings after being injured during a dive in Konyaaltı, Antalya.

While using a metal rod to move plastic waste during a dive, Gökoğlu was struck by a lionfish, resulting in spines piercing his palm and finger. He reported experiencing intense pain and bleeding. To mitigate the venom, he initially used the heat from beach sand before continuing the treatment with hot water obtained from a nearby hotel.

Gökoğlu emphasized that applying ice to a lionfish sting is a mistake. Instead, he recommends immersing the affected area in the highest tolerable temperature of hot water for at least 45 to 50 minutes to denature the venom. He noted that while he experienced some swelling and blistering, the hot water prevented more severe consequences such as tissue necrosis or bruising. He advised that anyone experiencing such a sting should seek immediate medical attention.

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Akdeniz University · Konyaaltı · Mehmet Gökoğlu

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