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Perth Mum's Leg Saved After Terrifying Jellyfish Sting
12 Jan
Summary
- A Perth mother narrowly avoided leg amputation after a jellyfish sting turned septic.
- The 47-year-old's leg swelled and her foot turned black from the venom.
- Doctors successfully treated the infection with antibiotics, saving her limb.
A family holiday in Busselton turned terrifying for Perth mother Andrea Bowden when a jellyfish sting led to a severe infection. Wading in shallow waters at Peppermint Grove Beach, the 47-year-old experienced an intense burning sensation, but the situation escalated dramatically as her leg swelled and her foot began to turn black.
Due to the progressing sepsis, Bowden was rushed to Fiona Stanley Hospital, where doctors discussed the possibility of a below-knee amputation. Fortunately, prompt medical intervention, including successful antibiotic treatment, prevented further complications and allowed her to keep her leg. The culprit was identified as Carybdea xaymacana, a small jellyfish increasingly found in these non-tropical waters.
Bowden, a Type 1 diabetic, described the sting as a 'perfect storm' that complicated treatment. She has since vowed to always wear protective clothing when entering the water. Health advice suggests using saltwater followed by hot water for washing off sting cells, and not to ignore intense pain, which could indicate a serious infection.
