Red Tide Health Tips
1. Most people can swim in red tide but it can cause skin irritation and burning eyes. If your skin is easily irritated, avoid red tide water. If you experience irritation, get out and thoroughly wash off with fresh water. Swimming near dead fish is not recommended.
2. Symptoms from breathing red tide toxins are normally coughing, sneezing, and teary eyes. Symptoms are usually temporary when red tide toxins are in the air. Wearing a particle filter mask may lessen the affects and research shows that using over-the-counter antihistamines may decrease your symptoms. Check the marine forecast. Fewer toxins are in the air when the wind is blowing offshore.
3. People with respiratory problems should avoid red tide areas, especially when winds are blowing toxins near shore. If you go to the beach, take your short acting inhaler with you. If you have symptoms, leave the beach and seek air conditioning.