What causes scorpion sting itching a week later. How to treat persistent itching after a scorpion sting. When should you seek medical attention for a scorpion sting. What are the symptoms of a hypersensitivity reaction to scorpion antivenom. How to distinguish between normal and severe reactions to scorpion stings.

Understanding Scorpion Stings: Types and Severity

Scorpion stings are a common concern in many parts of the world, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. While most scorpion stings cause only mild discomfort, some can be potentially life-threatening. The severity of a scorpion sting largely depends on the species involved and the individual’s reaction to the venom.

In the United States, the bark scorpion (Centruroides) is the only species known to possess venom potent enough to cause serious complications. This scorpion, typically 2-3 inches long and yellow-brown or orange in color, is primarily found in southwestern states.

Grading Scorpion Sting Severity

• Grade 1: Pain and swelling limited to the sting site
• Grade 2: Pain and some paralysis near the sting site and proximal areas
• Grade 3: Skeletal neuromuscular dysfunction or cranial nerve issues
• Grade 4: Combination of grade 3 symptoms plus organ failure, hyperthermia, or pulmonary edema

Do all scorpion stings require medical attention? Not necessarily. According to statistics, fewer than 10% of all scorpion stings cause severe symptoms. Approximately 85% of bark scorpion stings result in only mild, local reactions. However, about 10% can cause waves of pain in the extremities, and around 5% may lead to serious symptoms.

Immediate Actions Following a Scorpion Sting

If you suspect you’ve been stung by a scorpion, it’s crucial to take immediate action to minimize potential complications. Here are the steps recommended by health authorities:

1. Wash the sting site thoroughly with soap and water
2. Contact Poison Control (800-222-1222) for guidance
3. Apply ice to the affected area to reduce pain and swelling
4. Remain calm and avoid taking sedatives
5. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or spread

Can you identify a scorpion sting by its appearance? While it’s not always easy to distinguish a scorpion sting from other insect bites, common signs include localized pain, numbness, and tingling. In some cases, you might observe two small puncture marks at the sting site.

Recognizing Severe Reactions to Scorpion Stings

While most scorpion stings result in mild symptoms, it’s crucial to be aware of signs that indicate a more serious reaction. Severe symptoms that require immediate medical attention include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Drooling or difficulty swallowing
• Seizures or muscle jerking
• Hives and swelling over the body
• Difficulty standing
• Unconsciousness

Who is at higher risk for severe reactions to scorpion stings? Young children and older adults are particularly vulnerable to developing life-threatening reactions. If a child or elderly person is stung by a scorpion, it’s advisable to seek medical help promptly, even if initial symptoms appear mild.

Treatment Options for Scorpion Stings

The appropriate treatment for a scorpion sting depends on the severity of the reaction. For mild cases, self-care measures may suffice, while more severe cases require professional medical intervention.

Self-Care for Mild Symptoms

If you experience only mild symptoms such as localized pain and numbness, you can try the following self-care measures:

• Clean the area around the sting
• Apply a cold pack or compress
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Elevate the affected body part to heart level

Medical Treatment for Severe Reactions

For more severe reactions, especially those caused by dangerous species like the bark scorpion, medical treatment may include:

• Pain management medications
• Antianxiety medications
• Antivenom administration (for grade 3 and 4 reactions)

Is antivenom always available for scorpion stings? Unfortunately, many hospitals do not stock scorpion antivenom, and when available, it can be extremely expensive. This underscores the importance of prevention and prompt action in case of a sting.

Persistent Itching After Scorpion Sting: Causes and Concerns

While immediate pain and discomfort are common following a scorpion sting, some individuals may experience persistent itching days or even weeks after the incident. This delayed reaction can be concerning and may indicate a hypersensitivity response.

Potential Causes of Delayed Itching

• Delayed allergic reaction to the venom
• Hypersensitivity to components of the scorpion’s venom
• Residual inflammation at the sting site
• Secondary infection of the sting wound

Why does itching sometimes occur a week after the scorpion sting? Delayed reactions can be attributed to the body’s immune response. As the immune system processes the venom components, it may trigger a delayed hypersensitivity reaction, manifesting as itching or other symptoms.

Hypersensitivity Reactions to Scorpion Antivenom

In cases where scorpion antivenom is administered, some individuals may develop hypersensitivity reactions to the antivenom itself. These reactions can range from mild to severe and may occur immediately or days after treatment.

Symptoms of Antivenom Hypersensitivity

• Itching or rash at the injection site or over the entire body
• Swelling, particularly of the face, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
• Dizziness or fainting

How common are hypersensitivity reactions to scorpion antivenom? While exact statistics vary, studies suggest that mild to moderate reactions occur in about 5-10% of patients receiving antivenom. Severe anaphylactic reactions are rarer, occurring in less than 1% of cases.

Managing Persistent Itching and Hypersensitivity Reactions

If you experience persistent itching or other symptoms suggestive of a hypersensitivity reaction following a scorpion sting or antivenom treatment, consider the following management strategies:

1. Consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation
2. Use over-the-counter antihistamines to relieve itching
3. Apply topical corticosteroid creams as recommended by a doctor
4. Keep the affected area clean and avoid scratching to prevent secondary infections
5. Monitor for signs of more severe reactions and seek immediate medical attention if they occur

Can persistent itching be a sign of a more serious condition? While uncommon, prolonged or severe itching could indicate a developing complication or an allergic reaction. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen over time.

Preventing Scorpion Stings and Minimizing Risks

Prevention is key when it comes to scorpion stings. By taking proactive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of encountering these arachnids and experiencing their painful stings.

Preventive Measures

• Seal cracks and crevices in your home’s foundation and walls
• Remove piles of wood, rocks, or debris near your house
• Wear closed-toe shoes and use caution when walking in areas known to have scorpions
• Shake out shoes and clothing before wearing, especially if stored in dark areas
• Use pesticides or natural repellents around your property

How effective are scorpion repellents? While no repellent is 100% effective, certain essential oils like cedarwood, lavender, and peppermint have shown some efficacy in deterring scorpions. However, these should be used in conjunction with other preventive measures for best results.

By understanding the nature of scorpion stings, recognizing severe symptoms, and knowing how to respond appropriately, you can minimize the risks associated with these encounters. Remember that while most scorpion stings are not life-threatening, prompt action and proper care are essential for ensuring the best possible outcome. If you experience persistent itching or other unusual symptoms following a scorpion sting, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Your health and peace of mind are paramount in dealing with these potentially dangerous arachnids.

What to do, treatment, and when to seek help

Scorpion stings can be painful, but in most cases, they will not cause any major complications. What a person should do after a scorpion sting depends on the type of scorpion and the symptoms that follow.

If a person experiences any of the following symptoms after a scorpion sting, they need immediate medical attention:

• difficulty breathing
• drooling
• difficulty swallowing
• seizures or muscle jerking
• hives and swelling over the body
• difficulty standing
• unconsciousness

The only scorpion in the United States that has venom potent enough to cause serious complications is the bark scorpion (Centruroides). It is 2–3 inches long and either yellow-brown or orange.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), experiencing a sting from the bark scorpion can cause life threatening complications.

Although people can find scorpions in several areas of the U. S., the bark scorpion tends to reside in southwestern states.

Keep reading for more information on how to treat a scorpion sting.

Share on PinterestIn most instances, scorpion bites do not cause any major complications.

If a person thinks that they have experienced a scorpion sting, they should wash the sting site with water and soap. They can also call Poison Control for guidance on 800-222-1222.

The CDC recommend that adults take the following steps if a scorpion stings them:

• Contact a healthcare provider or Poison Control for instructions and advice related to the sting.
• Apply ice to the sting site to help with pain and swelling.
• Remain calm and relaxed.
• Avoid taking any sort of sedative.

According to Seattle Children’s Hospital, if a scorpion stings a child, what a parent or caregiver should do depends on their reaction to the sting.

For example, they recommend self-care if mild symptoms — such as pain, numbness, or tingling — occur only around the site of the sting.

However, if a parent or caregiver is concerned, or if the child’s last tetanus shot was more than 10 years ago, they should inform a doctor of the sting.

They may also want to call a doctor if skin flushing starts to spread after 24 hours from the sting.

A person should call 911 if an adult or child experiences the following:

• muscle jerking or spasms
• difficulty swallowing
• drooling
• leg weakness
• unconsciousness
• difficulty breathing
• swelling or hives over the body

If in doubt, a person should call 911 or seek emergency help immediately.

According to Poison Control, those with the highest risk of developing severe symptoms are young children. A 2019 article adds that older adults are also at risk of developing severe symptoms.

Treatment varies based on the species of scorpion that stung the person. However, if in doubt, a person should seek medical care as soon as possible.

For mild symptoms, such as pain and numbness at the site of the sting, a person may not need much care. They may wish to perform self-care that involves:

• cleaning the area around the sting
• applying a cold pack or compress
• taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggest elevating the affected body part so that it is at the same level as the heart.

However, if a more dangerous species — such as a bark scorpion — stings a person, treatment will vary depending on the severity of sting:

Grade 1

This means that pain, swelling, and other symptoms are limited to the area of the sting. This only requires pain management.

Grade 2

There is pain and some paralysis at or near the site and closer to where the limb connects to the body.

Treatment often includes pain management and may involve antianxiety medication.

Grade 3

This can include all the symptoms of grade 2, alongside flailing limbs and an arching back (skeletal neuromuscular dysfunction) or increased saliva production, blurry vision, and rapid movement of the tongue (cranial nerve issues).

Treatment includes the use of pain relievers, anxiety medications, and antivenom.

Grade 4

A person will experience both skeletal neuromuscular dysfunction and cranial nerve issues, as well as organ failure, hyperthermia, or pulmonary edema.

Antivenom is critical for people experiencing these symptoms. However, according to Poison Control, many hospitals do not stock the antivenom, and it can be very expensive.

For most stings, symptoms will consist of mostly local reactions to the sting. Fewer than 10% of all scorpion stings will cause severe symptoms.

Young children and older adults are most likely to develop life threatening reactions to a sting.

Around 85% of bark scorpion stings cause only a mild, local reaction. About 10% cause waves of pain in the legs or arms, and around 5% cause serious symptoms.

Mild symptoms of a scorpion sting may include:

• tingling, pain, or numbness at the site of the sting
• limited or no swelling
• limited or no skin flushing
• tingling, pain, or numbness that travels up the arm or leg
• symptoms that typically only last for about 24 hours

If serious symptoms occur, they will develop within 2–3 hours of the sting. The first serious symptom may be rapid eye movements or muscle twitching.

Other serious symptoms and complications may include:

• jerky eye movements
• blurry vision
• muscle twitching
• difficulty breathing
• difficulty swallowing
• slurred speech

According to Poison Control, there has not been a reported death from a scorpion sting for nearly 50 years.

However, complications can occur. If a person has reached the grade 4 classification scale, they may experience:

• high body temperatures
• pulmonary edema
• multiple organ failure
• rhabdomyolysis, which occurs when the muscle tissues break down and release a protein called myoglobin into the blood

People in the U.S. who are most at risk of a bark scorpion sting live or work in southwestern areas of the country, including the following states:

• Arizona
• Utah
• Texas
• Nevada
• California
• New Mexico

The CDC recommend that people at risk of exposure, such as those working in outside areas, take the following steps:

• Wear leather gloves.
• Wear long sleeves.
• Shake out clothing, shoes, and boots before putting them on.

A person should also carry an epinephrine auto-injector if they have a history of allergic reactions to insect bites or stings.

Scorpions are most active at night. Therefore, people should exercise extra caution working outside at night.

A person should see a doctor if they have symptoms that get worse within 2–3 hours of the sting.

A person needs emergency medical care if they have severe, potentially life threatening conditions that develop immediately following a sting.

According to the 2019 article, in most cases, a scorpion sting will only cause local pain, burning, or tingling. In these cases, a person will likely only require home treatment, which can include taking pain relievers, cleaning the sting, and applying ice.

If the symptoms are more serious, such as spreading pain or difficulty breathing, a person will likely need medical attention.

With proper medical treatment, a person is likely to make a full recovery.

In rare cases and among vulnerable populations, including young children and older adults, a person may die from a scorpion sting.

Scorpion stings are not usually a life threatening issue.

After experiencing a sting, a person should wash the area with soap and water and contact Poison Control for guidance.

Often, a person will only need home care, such as pain relievers and ice. However, more serious cases may require additional medication and treatment.

With proper medical care, most people should recover from a serious case.

People most at risk of experiencing a sting from a bark scorpion are those who live or work in the southwestern areas of the U.S. They may wish to take extra precautions while working outside.

Scorpions Information | Mount Sinai

This article describes the effects of a scorpion sting.

This article for information only. DO NOT use it to treat or manage a scorpion sting. If you or someone you are with is stung, call your local emergency number (such as 911), or your local poison center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere in the United States.

Poisonous Ingredient

Scorpion venom contains toxins.

Where Found

This venom is found in scorpions and related species. More than 40 species of scorpions are found in the United States.

The class of insects to which scorpions belong contains the largest number of venomous species known.

Scorpion stings kill more people around the world than any other animal, except snakes (from snake bites). However, most varieties of North American scorpions are NOT venomous. The venomous ones in the United States live mainly in the southwestern deserts.

Symptoms

In mild cases, the only symptom may be a mild tingling or burning at the site of the sting.

In severe cases, symptoms in different parts of the body may include:

EYES AND EARS

• Double vision

LUNGS

• Difficulty breathing
• No breathing
• Rapid breathing

NOSE, MOUTH, AND THROAT

• Drooling
• Itching of the nose and throat
• Spasm of the larynx (voice box)
• Tongue that feels thick

HEART AND BLOOD

• Increased or decreased heart rate
• Irregular heartbeat

KIDNEYS AND BLADDER

• Inability to hold in urine
• Decreased urine output

MUSCLES AND JOINTS

• Muscle spasms

NERVOUS SYSTEM

• Anxiety
• Convulsions (seizures)
• Paralysis
• Random movements of the head, eye, or neck
• Restlessness
• Stiffness

SKIN

• Heightened sensitivity to touch in the area of the sting
• Sweating

STOMACH AND INTESTINAL TRACT

• Abdominal cramps
• Inability to hold in stool
• Nausea and vomiting

Home Care

Most stings from North American scorpions do not need treatment. Children 6 years and younger are more likely to have harmful effects from venomous types of scorpions.

• Clean the area thoroughly with soap and water.
• Place ice (wrapped in a clean cloth) on the site of the sting for 10 minutes and then off for 10 minutes. Repeat this process. If the person has problems with blood circulation, decrease the time that the ice is on the area to prevent possible skin damage.
• Keep the affected area still, if possible, to prevent the venom from spreading.
• Loosen clothing and remove rings and other tight jewelry.
• Give the person diphenhydramine (Benadryl and other brands) by mouth if they can swallow. This antihistamine drug may be used alone for mild symptoms.

Before Calling Emergency

Have this information ready:

• The person’s age, weight, and condition
• Type of scorpion, if possible
• The time of the sting
• Location of the sting

Poison Control

Your local poison center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere in the United States. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

Take the insect with you to the hospital, if possible. Make sure it is in a tightly closed container.

The health care provider will measure and monitor the person’s vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. The wound and symptoms will be treated. The person may receive:

• Blood and urine tests
• Breathing support, including oxygen, tube through the mouth into the throat, and breathing machine (ventilator)
• Chest x-ray
• ECG (electrocardiogram, or heart tracing)
• Fluids through a vein (by IV)
• Medicine to reverse the effect of the venom
• Medicine to treat symptoms

Outlook (Prognosis)

Death from scorpion stings rarely occurs in people older than 6 years. If symptoms rapidly become worse within the first 2 to 4 hours after the sting, a poor outcome is more likely. Symptoms may last several days or longer. Some deaths have occurred as late as weeks after the sting if complications develop.

Scorpions are nocturnal predatory animals that usually spend the day under rocks, logs, or floors and in crevices. DO NOT put your hands or feet in these hiding places.

James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM. Parasitic infestations, stings, and bites. In: James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM, eds. Andrews’ Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 20.

Otten EJ. Venomous animal injuries. In: Walls RM, Hockberger RS, Gausche-Hill M, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 55.

Suchard JR. Scorpion envenomation. In: Auerbach PS, Cushing TA, Harris NS, eds. Auerbach’s Wilderness Medicine. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2017:chap 44.

Last reviewed on: 7/20/2021

Reviewed by: Jesse Borke, MD, CPE, FAAEM, FACEP, Attending Physician at Kaiser Permanente, Orange County, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Bites of poisonous insects. What are poisonous insect bites?

IMPORTANT
The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.

Bites of poisonous insects are a complex of reactions that occur upon contact with hornets, bees, wasps, bumblebees, some types of spiders, scorpions. The pathological effect is due to the penetration of four types of toxic substances into the body of the victim: amines, beltides, proteins, animal enzymes. Local symptoms include burning pain, hyperemia, swelling. The spectrum of systemic phenomena includes dizziness, weakness, headache, diarrhea, signs of allergic reactions, convulsions, paralysis of the respiratory center. The diagnosis is established on the basis of the anamnesis and clinical picture. Treatment involves the removal of the sting, the introduction of hormones, specific sera.

ICD-10

T63.9 Toxic effect due to contact with venomous animal, unspecified

• Causes
• Pathogenesis
• Classification
• Symptoms
• Complications
• Diagnostics
• Treatment of poisonous insect bites
  • First aid
  • Inpatient care
  • Resuscitation allowance
• Prognosis and prevention
• Prices for treatment

General

Pathology is widespread everywhere except for permafrost zones. It occurs in the warm season, mostly ends safely – the patient shows local signs of poisoning with animal poisons, which disappear after a few days. In 5% of situations, stings of poisonous insects lead to allergic reactions, mainly urticaria and angioedema. About 1-2% of cases are accompanied by severe neurotoxic effects, the development of seizures and death of the victim. Risk group: children, mushroom pickers, hunters, people whose labor activity takes place in the open air.

Bites of poisonous insects

Causes

The vast majority of cases are associated with the provocation of an insect by a person: a touch of a hand, an attempt to enter the nest, to catch the animal. The bite is a defensive method that allows you to scare off or kill a significantly larger and physically stronger opponent. Attacks also occur for the purpose of reproduction. So, the human skin gadfly, which lives in Central America, is able to lay larvae on the skin, which subsequently take root in tissues.

Risk factors include staying in the countryside in summer, spring and autumn. People who often make trips to the forest, lakes, ponds, swamps without using protective equipment (clothing made of dense fabric, mosquito nets) are at particular risk. Injuries resulting from careless contact with insects are characteristic of beekeepers. For a year they receive up to 15-20 stings. Allergic reactions occur in people who use bees as a folk remedy for rheumatic pains.

Pathogenesis

The pathogenetic effect directly depends on the type of poison. Phospholipase A, contained in the secret of bees, hornets and wasps, has a hemolytic effect. There is a breakdown of erythrocytes. Melittin promotes an increase in vascular permeability, the formation of edema, the development of seizures, coronary disorders. The neurotoxin apamin acts on the bulbar centers and the spinal cord, and is capable of depressing respiration. With a single bite, the concentration of the toxicant is insufficient for the development of significant changes. They occur with a massive lesion (150-200 bees).

Individual stings of poisonous insects are dangerous due to the high risk of allergies. In case of injury, a massive release of reagins, histamine and other biologically active substances occurs. The reaction can proceed according to the type of anaphylactic shock (impaired central and peripheral blood flow under the action of inflammatory mediators), angioedema (fluid binding in tissues in a separate area of ​​the body) or urticaria (increased permeability of the microvasculature, which is accompanied by blocking of sensory nerve endings).

Classification

Bites of poisonous insects are divided according to the type of animal (bee, wasp, hornet, scorpion), according to the type of reaction (true toxic, allergic), according to the prevailing syndrome for truly toxic phenomena (hemolytic, neurotoxic, local symptoms). The most common is the classification according to the severity of the lesion:

• Lung. It is manifested mainly by local signs, does not lead to significant general symptoms. It develops after the bite of one or more insects that have poison with a moderate poisoning ability. Usually does not require medical attention. The exception is children under 1 year old.
• Medium severity. There are local and moderate systemic phenomena associated mainly with the neurotoxic effect of the toxicant. Moderate allergic reactions include urticaria and Quincke’s edema, which does not affect the respiratory tract. Violations of the function of the nervous system occur with the bites of several dozen bees. A hypersensitivity reaction can develop regardless of the number of animals.
• Heavy. There is anaphylactic shock, angioedema that impairs the patency of the upper respiratory tract, as well as severe toxic reactions. The latter are characterized by severe hemolysis of erythrocytes, damage to the central and peripheral nervous system. They are found after being stung by 100-150 bees or 5-10 scorpions.

Symptoms

Single bites of poisonous insects are manifested by burning pain that occurs immediately after the incident. After 15-20 minutes, swelling of the affected area, hyperemia develops. Then the pain is replaced by itching. Unpleasant sensations completely disappear after 24-48 hours, the resulting papule can persist for a week or more. With eye damage, conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and lacrimation are noted. The penetration of the poison under the mucous membranes leads to their pronounced edema.

Signs of a systemic reaction are dizziness, headache, photophobia, a drop or a sharp rise in blood pressure. In severe poisoning, fibrillatory twitches of skeletal muscles, convulsions, vomiting, diarrhea, pain in the heart area are observed. Possible vascular collapse, depression of consciousness. The most unfavorable option is disruption of the respiratory center, weakening of respiratory activity, massive hemolysis and associated nephropathy.

Allergic reactions manifest differently. Urticaria leads to the formation of flat-raised pink blisters on the body, reminiscent of the effects of contact with nettles. Quincke’s edema symptom is an increase in individual areas rich in subcutaneous tissue. The most dangerous type of this condition with damage to the upper respiratory tract. There is hoarseness, shortness of breath, diffuse cyanosis, sweating, anxiety. Signs of anaphylactic shock are generalized skin itching, a drop in blood pressure to critical values, pain in the abdomen and behind the sternum, collapse, loss of consciousness.

Complications

The most common complication is mechanical respiratory failure caused by angioedema. It is noted in 2-5% of people who have had an insect bite. It is usually easily stopped by intravenous administration of therapeutic doses of glucocorticosteroids. Leads to death only in the absence of medical care. Anaphylactic shock occurs in 0.3-0.5% of victims. It has a lethality of about 50% without treatment and 10-25% with therapeutic measures.

A severe complication of multiple bites is multiple organ failure, often provoked by hemolysis of red blood cells. The remnants of the destroyed red blood cells clog the renal tubules, causing intratubular necrosis. Violation of the work of other organs is due to electrolyte shifts, changes in pH, deterioration in the activity of the enzymatic apparatus. With the defeat of one or two systems, the lethality is about 20%, three – about 60%.

Diagnostics

The ambulance team is engaged in making the primary diagnosis against the background of severe reactions. People with mild injuries usually seek medical care on their own, so the primary care provider is an internist or general practitioner. Differential diagnosis is required with allergic phenomena of a different origin, snake bites, endotoxicosis due to internal diseases. Required examinations:

• Physical. Blood pressure is normal or elevated, severe forms of the condition are accompanied by hypotension. The pulse rate is higher than normal by 10-30 beats / minute. On the skin, a papule or urticaria characteristic of most bites is found. There is a history of contact with a poisonous insect. On auscultation of the lungs and bronchi, wheezing and wheezing can be heard.
• Laboratory. Nonspecific signs of inflammation are determined: an increase in ESR, a shift in the formula to the left, leukocytosis, and eosinophilia of an allergic nature. The defeat of the internal organs leads to an increase in the activity of liver enzymes, the accumulation of creatinine, urea. Electrolyte shifts, pH shift to the acidic side are revealed.
• Hardware. Required only for severe systemic events. Ultrasound reveals areas of kidney necrosis, an increase in the size of the liver. The x-ray may show signs of airway stenosis or pulmonary edema (infiltrative shadows, butterfly symptom). On the ECG – blockade of conduction, atrial fibrillation, tachycardia.

Treatment of poisonous insect bites

Lesions that are accompanied by the occurrence of only local symptoms do not require mandatory medical attention. It is enough to treat the affected area with prednisolone ointment or dimethindene maleate, which has antipruritic and anti-edematous effects. After contact with the bees, the sting should be removed with tweezers; it is not recommended to do this with a pinch of fingers. If the victim has systemic manifestations, it is necessary to provide him with rest and plenty of fluids, call the ambulance team.

First aid

At the prehospital stage, the introduction of antihistamines, hormones is indicated. The dose of hormonal drugs depends on the severity of the patient’s condition, varies within a fairly wide range. If the attack cannot be stopped, symptomatic therapy (bronchodilators, analgesics, sedatives) and hospitalization in a toxicological hospital are necessary. Severe intractable edema of the upper respiratory tract is an indication for emergency conicotomy.

Inpatient care

The basis of treatment is the introduction of antitoxic serum. Since there is no specific composition designed to eliminate the effects of an insect bite, an anti-karakurt or polyvalent anti-snake drug is used. Repeated injections of antihistamines and hormonal agents, bronchodilators are shown. For accelerated elimination of the toxicant, the method of forced diuresis and heavy drinking are used. The length of stay in the hospital usually does not exceed 2-5 days.

Resuscitation allowance

It is carried out with anaphylaxis, multiple organ failure, angioedema, poorly amenable to drug exposure. If breathing is disturbed, artificial respiratory support is performed. In case of shock, it is performed through an endotracheal tube; in case of edema of the upper respiratory tract, a tracheostomy is applied. Hemodynamic disorders are corrected with the help of pressor amines, coronary failures may require cardioversion, installation of an external stimulator. Benzodiazepines, muscle relaxants, are used to eliminate seizures. In some cases, hemodialysis is performed.

Prognosis and prevention

With mild and moderate course, the prognosis is favorable. A high risk of death occurs only with anaphylactic shock and the development of multiple organ failure. The number of such complications does not exceed 1% of the number of bitten. Timely assistance not only allows you to normalize the patient’s condition within 10-30 minutes, but in the vast majority of cases eliminates the need for hospitalization. Consideration should be given to the possibility of recurrence of the reaction after the end of the action of the drugs.

Bites of poisonous insects can be prevented by using protective clothing when hiking in their habitats (forests, fields, water bodies). To minimize the effects of injury while traveling, you should carry several antihistamine tablets and an ampoule of dexamethasone with you. For quick neutralization of allergic phenomena, the drug must be dissolved in the mouth. The therapeutic effect is achieved after 5-10 minutes, which slightly exceeds the onset of action of this agent with intravenous infusion.

You can share your medical history, what helped you in the treatment of poisonous insect bites.

Sources

1. Military toxicology and toxicology of extreme situations / Bova A.A., Gorokhov S.S. – 2005.
2. Clinical toxicology of children and adolescents / Markova I.V., Afanasiev V.V., Tsybulkin E.K. – 1999.
3. Clinical toxicology / Luzhnikov E.A. – 1994.
4. This article was prepared based on the materials of the site: https://www.krasotaimedicina.ru/

IMPORTANT
The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.

Scorpion bite saves from pain

https://ria.ru/20170426/1493171236.html

Scorpion bite saves from pain

Scorpion sting relieves pain

Cuban farmer Julio Casanas has long treated his pain with scorpion stings. The first time it happened by accident: he was stung by a scorpion, and the pain from arthritis … RIA Novosti, 04/26/2017 : 53

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Scorpion Sting

Scorpion sting

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MOSCOW, April 26 – RIA Novosti. Cuban farmer Julio Casanas has long been treating his pains with scorpion stings. The first time it happened by accident: he was stung by a scorpion, and the pain from arthritis suddenly disappeared. Since then, Julio has been using scorpion venom all the time as a medicine. “If my knee hurts, I put it on my knee, if my elbow, then on my elbow. And so every 15-20 days,” says the farmer.

Media: Russian scientists have developed painkillers based on spider venoms

February 1, 2017, 03:01

In fact, the anesthetic properties of scorpion venom have been known since ancient China. The Cuban scorpion was especially successful in this: Centruroides anchorellus. Its poison belongs to the poisons of moderate severity. Not fatal, but painful! The bite causes a sharp burning sensation of the damaged area. However, the pain from the bite passes quite quickly, while removing the rest of the pain symptoms.

The poison of Centruroides anchorellus also has an anti-inflammatory effect, and in addition, according to Cuban pharmacists, it can stop the growth of tumors, including malignant ones. While this issue is being discussed in the society of doctors around the world, Cubans have launched the production of a drug from scorpion venom to improve the health of cancer patients.

They set up scorpion farms.

© Fotolia / Axel Bußmann Breeding scorpion

© Fotolia / Axel Bußmann

An ordinary farm can produce one liter of poison per month, which is the raw material for making 100,000 packages of the drug. Scorpions breed very well, the female is fertilized, as a rule, from the first time.