What are the symptoms of red tide in humans?

2. Symptoms from breathing red tide toxins usually include coughing, sneezing, and teary eyes. For most people, symptoms are temporary when red tide toxins are in the air. Wearing a particle filter mask may lessen the effects, and research shows that using over-the- counter antihistamines may decrease your symptoms.



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Florida officials say records of red tide along the state's Gulf of Mexico coast date back to the 1840s. In the Gulf of Mexico, red tide most commonly occurs between August and December, but it can also happen at other times of year, notes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

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They are most common off the central and southwestern coasts of Florida between Clearwater and Sanibel Island but may occur anywhere in the Gulf. Blooms are less common but do occur along the southeastern Atlantic coast as far north as North Carolina.

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When is red tide season in Florida? In Florida, red tides begin in late summer or early fall and last through February or March. Two years ago, seven tons of dead fish washed ashore Sarasota beaches due to red tides. Swimmers reported skin infections and people with lung diseases reported trouble breathing.

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