Sea Sponge Irritation: Sea sponges grow on shells, stones, or other solid objects on the ocean floor. Accidental contact with the sea sponge is generally the cause of irritation. Symptoms of sea sponge irritation include itchy, stinging, prickly sensation at the site of irritation; burning, pain, blisters, and joint swelling; cases of extensive body exposure can lead to fever, chills, dizziness, nausea, and muscle cramps. Treatment is cleaning the affected area and OTC treatment.