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Swimmers itch is not a serious and usually disappear without medical treatment within one weeks. well in many cases it is a type of itchy rash caused by small worm-like parasites called schistosomes.Parasites in contaminated water can top layer of exposed skin - skin not covered by swimsuits, clothes and waders. Organisms soon die and cause a skin reaction called swimmers itch. Initially the reaction is mild redness and the affected skin followed by itchy, red, elevated area. In a further exposure of organisms, the reaction more severe and persistent, sometimes causing blisters.
Most cases are caused by parasites that use waterfowl as the vertebrate host. These avian schistosomes cannot complete their life cycles in mammals, but can accidentally infect humans, giving rise to mildly itchy spots on the skin.
This is not a serious though can be problematic for younger childrens.You can do following things to treat it
* Avoid scratching.
* Apply plain calamine lotion.
* Take antihistamines, especially at bedtime. These are not recommended for children under 6 years of age.
* Take shallow lukewarm baths with three tablespoons of baking soda in the water.
* Take colloidal oatmeal baths.
* Apply cool compresses.
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