What causes swimmer’s itch?

[WCCO News, July 24, 2024] Swimmer’s itch can be a nuisance for people who love to swim in fresh water. With that in mind, WCCO-TV viewers wanted to know what causes swimmer’s itch and how to treat it at home.  Allina Health dermatologist Elizabeth Farhat, MD helped provide some answers in WCCO’s Good Question segment.

• Swimmer’s itch is an allergic reaction to a parasite.
• A rash can emerge within 12 to 24 hours of being in fresh water.
• The best way to treat it is to avoid scratching and use anti-ich creams.