What specific danger arises from rinsing a man-of-war sting with fresh water before deactivation?
Answer
It forces toxins deeper into the skin tissue
Fresh water represents a critical pitfall to avoid in the immediate aftermath of contact with a Portuguese man-of-war. Unlike vinegar, which deactivates the stinging capsules, fresh water acts as a hypotonic solution relative to the stinging cells. This difference in osmotic balance triggers the nematocysts that are still attached to the skin to rupture and discharge their venom payload. More severely, this process forces the toxins that have already been delivered deeper into the underlying skin tissue, complicating the subsequent pain management phase.
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