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What to do about scorpion stings. What To Do If Stung By Scorpion: A Comprehensive Guide

What to do if you get stung by a scorpion? Learn the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment for scorpion stings. Protect yourself and your home against these dangerous pests.

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Identifying Scorpion Stings

If you’ve been stung by a scorpion, it’s important to know how to identify the sting. Scorpion stings can be difficult to distinguish from other insect bites or stings, but there are a few key signs to look out for:

– Pain that is more intense than a typical bee sting
– Numbness and tingling around the sting site
– Slight swelling

More severe symptoms that indicate a scorpion sting include:

  • Muscle twitching or thrashing
  • Unusual head, eye, and neck movements
  • Drooling
  • Vomiting
  • Severe sweating
  • High or low blood pressure
  • Accelerated or irregular heartbeat
  • Restlessness or excitability

If you suspect you’ve been stung by a scorpion, it’s important to seek medical attention, especially if the symptoms are severe.

Treating Scorpion Stings

The first step in treating a scorpion sting is to clean the area with soap and water to prevent infection. Then, apply a cool compress for 10 minutes at a time to help reduce swelling and pain. If the sting is on your arm or leg, elevate the limb to help with swelling as well.

If you believe the scorpion that stung you may be venomous, you can apply a small amount of bleach to the sting site. This can help neutralize any venom. However, you should only do this if you’re certain the scorpion was venomous, and you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

In severe cases, or if you’re unsure about the type of scorpion, it’s best to go to the nearest doctor or emergency room, or call a poison helpline immediately.

Protecting Yourself and Your Home

If you live in an area where scorpions are common, it’s important to take measures to protect yourself and your home. Some tips include:

  • Sealing any cracks or crevices in your home to prevent scorpions from getting inside
  • Keeping your yard and outdoor areas well-maintained and free of debris
  • Using insecticides or calling a pest control professional to treat your home and yard
  • Wearing protective clothing, such as long sleeves and pants, when working outdoors
  • Shaking out clothing, shoes, and bedding before use to check for scorpions

The Importance of Seeking Medical Attention

While most scorpion stings in the United States are not life-threatening, it’s still important to seek medical attention, especially if the symptoms are severe. Some key reasons to see a doctor include:

  1. To determine if the scorpion that stung you is venomous and requires antivenom treatment
  2. To monitor for any severe reactions or complications, such as difficulty breathing or a rapid heartbeat
  3. To receive appropriate pain management and treatment for the sting
  4. To rule out any other underlying medical conditions that may be affecting your response to the sting

Don’t take chances when it comes to scorpion stings. Seek medical attention promptly, especially if you experience any concerning symptoms.

The Difference Between Scorpion Bites and Stings

It’s important to note that scorpions do not actually bite – they only sting. Many people mistakenly use the term “bite” when referring to a scorpion sting, but this is inaccurate.

Scorpions use their stinger, located at the end of their tail, to deliver a venomous sting. This is their primary defense mechanism and a way to subdue prey. The sting itself is what causes the pain and other symptoms associated with a scorpion encounter.

So, if you’ve been “bitten” by a scorpion, it was actually a sting. Understanding this distinction can help you better identify and treat the injury accordingly.

Conclusion

Scorpion stings can be a serious and potentially life-threatening issue, especially in certain regions where more venomous species are present. By understanding the symptoms, proper treatment, and steps to protect yourself and your home, you can be better prepared to handle a scorpion sting if it ever occurs.

Remember, if you suspect a venomous scorpion sting or experience severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Don’t take chances with your health and safety when it comes to these dangerous pests.

What To Do If Stung By Scorpion

If you lived areas of Arizona for a long time, you might know the pain associated with a scorpion sting! So, what do you do if you get stung? How do you even know if you got stung? There are actually several ways that you can identify, and treat, scorpion stings.

First of all, how do you know if you’ve been stung by a scorpion? It might be hard to tell a scorpion sting from something else, like a bee sting. There are a few ways in which you can distinguish that you’ve been stung by a scorpion, and not another animal. Some mild signs and symptoms of a scorpion sting include pain, which will most likely be more intense than a bee sting; numbness and tingling in the area around the sting; and slight swelling. If you have a more severe reaction, it will actually be easier to tell that what you have been stung by is a scorpion, because the symptoms are so unique. These severe symptoms include muscle twitching or thrashing; unusual head, eye, and neck movements; drooling; vomiting; severe sweating; high or low blood pressure; accelerated or irregular heartbeat; or restlessness or excitability.  So, once you discover that you do indeed have a scorpion sting, what do you do?

First, wash the area of the sting with soap and water to clean it, and prevent infection.  Then, apply a cool compress over the sting for ten minutes, then remove it, and repeat. If the scorpion sting is on your arm or leg, elevate that limb so that it’s level with your heart, which should help with any swelling. If you believe that the scorpion that stung you might be venomous, it might be a good idea to apply bleach to the sting site. Soak a cotton ball with the bleach, then hold it on the sting for about five minutes, or until the tingling sensation stops. If you apply the bleach quickly enough, it could neutralize any possible venom from the scorpion. Before doing more, if you believe that the scorpion might have been poisonous, go to your nearest doctor or emergency room, or call a poison helpline.

It’s always a good idea to be on the lookout for scorpions if you know that they are in your area. Take measures to protect and fortify your home against scorpions, and be sure that you know what to do in case of a scorpion sting!

Gary Dobert

Gary is the co-owner of Varsity Termite and Pest Control, a family owned and operated company in Arizona with over 21 years of experience. They specialize in termite and scorpion control services.

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Scorpion Stings

Scorpions use their sting to capture prey and to defend themselves. They hunt at night and will not sting unless provoked or they feel threatened. All scorpions use their stings as a defense mechanism or a weapon to incapacitate prey. But the potency to humans of stings varies, depending on the scorpion species. One thing that all scorpions have in common is that the sting possesses venom, which usually is neurotoxic in nature.

Do Scorpions Bite or Sting?

Scorpions don’t actually bite – they only sting. Many people use the word “bite” to describe a sting.

How To Identify The Sting

What does a sting look like? Scorpion stings usually are most readily identified by actually seeing the scorpion sting a person or searching around to see a scorpion trying to get away after stinging someone.

Symptoms Of Stings

Most scorpion stings that occur in the United States cause only minor signs and symptoms such as pain, redness and warmth at the sting site. However, the venom of the bark scorpion is very toxic and can be deadly for those highly sensitive to the sting, particularly children.

Most scorpion sting symptoms are mildly painful and involve numbness, tingling and swelling around the sting site. More severe symptoms include muscle twitching, unusual head, neck and eye movements, drooling, sweating, vomiting, high blood pressure (hypertension), low blood pressure (hypotension), accelerated heart rate, restlessness or excitability. Stings can cause immediate pain or burning, and produce small swellings that are sensitive to the touch. Symptoms of Bark Scorpion stings result in numbness or tingling, blurry vision and twitching muscles. For children, hyperactivity and erratic eye movement can manifest.

Treatment

Most species of scorpions living in the U.S. are not highly venomous, with the exception of Centruroides sculpteratus, the Arizona bark scorpion. In fact, most stings by North American scorpions, while painful, do not require extensive medical treatment.

Medical specialists can immobilize the affected part below the level of the heart, keeping the venom from spreading any further into the body and delaying the absorption of the poison. The spread of the venom is further limited by calming the patient in order to decrease the blood pressure and heart rate.

Envenomization, the process of injecting venom by biting, by the Arizona bark scorpion may cause death if not properly treated, so seek the advice and care of a physician for treatment of scorpion stings. There is, however, a product called Anascorp that is approved for treatment of stings by this scorpion species, but again check with your physician.

Risks Associated With Infections?

Secondary infections may occur if cleaning and disinfecting of the sting is not done.

How To Identify A Pet Sting

The best way to identify a scorpion sting to your pet is to observe your pet’s behavior. If stung, the pet may react by running around, yelping, whimpering and licking the wound. If a scorpion stings your dog or cat on an extremity, the pet may hold its paw or leg in the air and avoid putting pressure on it. Also, swelling and sensitivity around the sting site will help identify an unfriendly encounter with a scorpion.

Other Information

Out of 1,500 scorpion species, 50 are known to be lethal to humans, mostly belonging to the scorpion family called Buthidae. A triangular-shaped sternum, slender body, seemingly weak pincers, and thick, fleshy tail typically characterize this scorpion family. Their stings are painful, but if treated correctly, an infection can be prevented.

Scorpions to Snakes: What Not to Do if Stung or Bitten

When spring and summer arrive, soon you might start to hear about snakes sunbathing on trails and scorpions skittering about. These crazy critters can add a little bit of suspense to your day if you encounter them.

While the likelihood of dying from a scorpion sting or snakebite is rare, Bryan Kuhn, PharmD, a pharmacist and poison education specialist at Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, shared some do’s and don’ts you should consider if you or someone you know is bitten or stung.

Some Do’s and Don’ts for Scorpion Stings and Snakebites

Scorpion Stings
  • Do not apply ice to the sting site
    • Instead: Ice may feel good when applied but once removed, the pain will return with worse intensity. Instead, use a cool compress. Use several small towels and soak them in a bowl of ice water. Apply one of the cool compresses to the sting site and rotate it with another freshly cooled towel from the bowl as needed.
  • Do not try to trap or retrieve the scorpion for identification
    • Instead: This puts you at risk for another sting. You can instead kill the scorpion and dispose of it if it’s inside your home. “The identification won’t alter what symptoms to look for or what treatment options you have,” Dr. Kuhn said. “While bark scorpions are a smaller relative to other species of scorpions, “baby scorpions” are not more harmful or deadly. The age of the scorpion doesn’t determine the extent to which symptoms will occur, just the species.”
Snakebites
  • Do Not Panic
    • Instead: Remain calm and call 911. Then call Banner Poison & Drug Information Center at 800-222-1222.
  • Do not attempt to watch for symptoms at home
    • Instead: All rattlesnake bites MUST be evaluated in an emergency department, sometimes for at least 24 hours. “Obvious signs of an envenomation (the site of the bite) include bruising and swelling, but the venom can also effect different components in your bloodstream that don’t present with obvious signs,” Dr. Kuhn said.
  • Do not try to suck out the venom from the bite site
    • Instead: Go to the hospital for treatment. Sucking out the venom is not effective at removing venom and may introduce more bacteria at the site of the bite, which can result in an infection.
  • Do not apply a tourniquet or other constrictive dressing around the bite site or limb
    • Instead: Don’t wrap or tourniquet the bite. This does not prevent venom from moving around the bloodstream to other parts of the body. It does decrease the amount of blood flow to the bite area but could further worsen the venom-related effects. This also applies to jewelry and other constricting clothing or items.
  • Do not cut around the bite site or use a venom removal instrument
    • Instead: Don’t touch the site of the bite, and just seek immediate medical attention. Trying to make the bite site bleed won’t eliminate venom from the body. It is painful and will likely increase the chances of an infection and disfiguration from the cut.
  • Do not wrap the affected limb
    • Instead: It’s best to leave the bite site alone. You can use a non-compressive splint to immobilize and straighten the limb.
  • Do not try to trap or retrieve the snake for identification
    • Instead: This will put you at greater risk for another bite. Leave the snake alone and head to the hospital. Identifying the type of snake that bit you won’t alter the type of medical management offered at a hospital.

When Hospitalization is Necessary

Scorpion Stings

The bark scorpion is the only species of scorpion able to produce severe enough symptoms to potentially require a hospitalization. Most adults can tolerate these severe symptoms at home with a cool compress and over-the-counter pain relievers.

That said, if the pain becomes unbearable despite home remedies, it’s time to go to a hospital. Allergic reactions are rare with scorpion stings, but if you experience any difficulty breathing and/or chest pains, call 911.

Children younger than 5 years old are more likely to require a hospital visit. After calling the Poison Center, a child with excessive drooling, roving eye movements or inconsolable crying may require antivenom medication that can only be administered in a hospital (most often in the emergency department). Older children may not develop excessive drooling, but like adults, the pain and discomfort may not be successfully treated with over-the-counter remedies. This is another reason to seek medical attention at a hospital.

Snakebites

All snakebites must be evaluated in the emergency department. Even dry bites should be evaluated by a physician. Baseline labs and a physician’s assessment must be made before a diagnosis of a dry bite can occur. The Poison Center will typically follow-up with patients at home within 24 hours to ensure there is no development of related symptoms. Almost all bites (aside from dry bites) will require at least a 24-hour hospitalization with the potential for repeat laboratory monitoring, wound care and antivenom administration. Upon discharge from the hospital, the Poison Center will follow-up with the patient at home for 2-3 weeks.

Big Takeaway

“The most important thing to remember is what NOT to do,” Dr. Kuhn said. “Snakebites and scorpion stings are rare, so just be mindful where you stick your hands and feet and be aware of what might be hiding in a hole or sunning itself on a ledge.”

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/snakes/default.html

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/insects/scorpions.html


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Scorpion Sting – an overview

Human

Most scorpion stings produce a local tissue reaction that is characterized by mild to moderate burning pain. Usually there is minimal swelling and erythema. In the United States, this is the limit of the reaction following stings of relatively benign scorpions such as Vejovis, Hadrurus, and several other common scorpion species. Occasionally, infections may complicate the clinical course of the sting. Rarely, acute hypersensitivity reactions may occur.

The more poisonous C. exilicauda may produce systemic symptoms following significant envenomation. However, even these scorpions often produce only pain and other localized reaction at the sting site. These minor envenomations are more common in adults than children. When systemic symptoms do develop, they can include increased heart rate, hypertension, dilated pupils, sweating, and hyperglycemia. Also, salivation, tearing, diarrhea, bradycardia, and respiratory compromise may develop when parasympathetic nerve stimulation predominates from acetylcholine release. Other clinical effects include blurred vision, nystagmus, oculomotor effects, opisthotonus, muscle fasciculations, convulsions, breathing difficulty, respiratory failure, and cardiac arrhythmias. Young children, the elderly, and those with preexisting cardiovascular disease are at greater risk for severe systemic toxicity from scorpion envenomation.

Occasionally, poisonous exotic species make their way out of their endemic areas either by illegal importation or along with agricultural product shipments from abroad. Signs and symptoms following envenomation vary depending on the species of scorpion involved. A few of these scorpions that have caused life-threatening effects and fatalities in their endemic countries include the following:

Androctonus australis (yellow fattail scorpion): Diaphoresis, hypertension, vomiting, cardiogenic shock, and pulmonary edema. Envenomations from this scorpion have resulted in many fatalities in North Africa

Buthotus tamulus (Indian red scorpion): Diaphoresis, vomiting, facial swelling, hypertension, tachycardia, hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias, left ventricular dysfunction, pulmonary edema.

Leiurus quinquestriatus (deathstalker scorpion): Hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, pulmonary edema.

Tityus serrulatus: Noncardiac pulmonary edema, acute respiratory distress syndrome.

UF Health, University of Florida Health

Definition

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

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

KIDNEYS AND BLADDER

MUSCLES AND JOINTS

NERVOUS SYSTEM

SKIN

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

STOMACH AND INTESTINAL TRACT

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.

References

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. Aurebach’s Wilderness Medicine. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2017:chap 44.

Scorpion Sting First Aid Tips

Living in the Phoenix area, you know all too well about those eight-legged, dual-pincher, and piercing tail monsters with whom we share the desert. Scorpions are extremely intimidating looking, but thankfully, their barks are much worse than their bites—at least if you get a scorpion sting in the U.S.

Thankfully, scorpion stings in the Phoenix area are not deadly. But it can still be a scary situation when you get stung. Keep this list handy for what you need to do if you encounter a scorpion and it doesn’t go well.

Arizona Bark Scorpion Stings

The Arizona bark scorpion is the most venomous scorpion in North America. Unfortunately, it’s also the most common scorpion found in and around homes in Arizona. A sting from an Arizona bark scorpion causes far different symptoms for different people.

Some people report a bark scorpion sting as being the equivalent of being bitten by an ant. Others have severe pain or a burning sensation at the sting site, along with swelling, numbness that can spread throughout the body, even high blood pressure and trouble breathing. Luckily, most people fall in between these two scenarios and report a scorpion sting being about as bad as a sting from a wasp or slightly worse.

Manage Your Scorpion Sting at Home

Most Phoenix residents who have had a scorpion sting can take care of the issue at home. First things first: You need to assess the damage. Then you can move forward with alleviating pain.

Follow these steps if you get stung by a scorpion:

  • First, find the sting location. This might sound easy, but it’s sometimes difficult to locate due to spreading pain or numbness. Look at extremities, such as hands and feet, first.
  • Clean the sting site with soap and water as soon as possible. This will clear the wound and wash away any residual venom.
  • Counter to most wound treatments, you will want to keep your scorpion sting below heart level if possible. Keeping your sting site low will help prevent the venom from spreading.
  • Try to keep calm and relax. Excitement can lead to a higher heart rate, which will spread the venom faster and only cause more pain.
  • Grab an ice pack and press it against your scorpion sting for 10- to 15-minute intervals. Cooling the area will slow down the spread of the venom, alleviate the pain, and reduce the swelling. This is especially effective within the first two hours after the sting.
  • Take some painkillers: ibuprofen, Tylenol, and aspirin will all do the trick. This will definitely help with the pain management.
  • Cut an onion in half and apply it to your scorpion sting site. Onion has anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties that will both reduce the pain and help prevent infection.

The most common time for scorpion stings is in August. It’s hard to say how many people get stung each year since many don’t report the sting. However, if you have severe pain or life-threatening options, call poison control (800-222-1222) or head to the local emergency room.

When Scorpions Become Too Much

Tired of dealing with scorpions inside your home? It might be time to call in the pros. Budget Brothers has extensive experience dealing with scorpions, and we’ll get rid of the problem before you have to worry about another sting!

Scorpion Sting – North America

Is this your symptom?

  • Sting from a scorpion
  • Onset of local pain and tingling after a scorpion is seen in the area
  • The main symptoms are pain, tingling, and numbness at the sting site

Key Points

  • Scorpion stings often occur on a hand or a foot. They occur when a person disturbs a scorpion. Examples are stepping on one or reaching under a rock or pile of wood.
  • Most scorpion stings cause mild symptoms such as redness and pain at the sting site.
  • Stings from bark scorpions (found in the Southwest) can cause more serious symptoms.

Types

There are hundreds of different types of scorpions in the world. Scorpions look like tiny lobsters. They have a long tail with a stinger at the end. The tail curls up and over the scorpion’s body. Scorpions are most active at night. They like dark and moist places.

The sting of most scorpions can cause pain, numbness, and tingling at the sting site. There are three scorpions in North America that can sometimes cause serious, even life-threatening symptoms:

  • Bark scorpion. Found in the southwestern United States and Mexico.
  • Mexican scorpion. Found in northern Mexico.
  • Striped scorpion. Found in the southwestern United States and Mexico.

Symptoms

The most common symptom is pain at the site of the sting. There may be numbness, tingling, redness and swelling around the sting mark. However, there can be pain without any visible sting mark.

More serious symptoms happen in about 1 in 10 people stung by a scorpion. Babies and young children are at higher risk of severe reactions. Serious symptoms include:

  • Diarrhea and vomiting (throwing up)
  • Fast heart beat
  • Muscle jerks
  • Restlessness
  • Roving or wild eye movements
  • Sweating
  • Trouble swallowing and drooling
  • Trouble breathing and wheezing

Symptoms usually get better in 24-48 hours.

When to Call for Scorpion Sting – North America

Call 911 Now

  • Passed out (fainted)
  • Very weak (can’t stand)
  • Trouble breathing or wheezing
  • Drooling or trouble swallowing
  • Seizure or muscle jerking
  • Hives or swelling all over the body
  • You think you have a life-threatening emergency

Contact Doctor Within 24 Hours

  • Last tetanus shot was more than 10 years ago
  • Sting is red or very tender to touch and this started more than 24 hours after the sting
  • Sting is red or very tender to touch and it is getting larger more than 48 hours after the sting
  • You think you need to be seen, but the problem is not urgent

Contact Doctor During Office Hours

  • You have diabetes and a scorpion sting on your foot
  • You have other questions or concerns

Self Care at Home

  • Minor scorpion sting with symptoms only around the sting
  • How to prevent scorpion stings

Care Advice

Treating Scorpion Stings

  1. What You Should Know:
    • You should suspect a scorpion sting if you have symptoms of a sting and found a scorpion nearby.
    • Most scorpion stings cause mild symptoms such as pain and tingling at the sting site.
    • Here is some care advice that should help.
  2. Cleansing: Wash the sting thoroughly with soap and water.

  3. Local Cold:
    • Wrap a bag of ice in a towel to the sting (or a bag of frozen vegetables, like peas).
    • Apply this cold pack to the area of the sting for 10-20 minutes every hour for the first 4 hours.
  4. Pain Medicine:
    • You can take one of the following drugs if you have pain: acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve).
    • They are over-the-counter (OTC) pain drugs. You can buy them at the drugstore.
    • Use the lowest amount of a drug that makes your pain feel better.
    • Acetaminophen is safer than ibuprofen or naproxen in people over 65 years old.
    • Read the instructions and warnings on the package insert for all medicines you take.
  5. What to Expect:
    • Expect some pain for 1-2 days. It shouldn’t be any worse than a bee sting.
    • Numbness and tingling in the area of the sting may last for a couple days.
  6. Call Your Doctor If:
    • Serious symptoms occur
    • You have symptoms in other parts of your body, not just at sting
    • You think you need to be seen
    • You get worse

Preventing Scorpion Stings

  1. Prevention:
    • Do not walk barefoot in the desert, especially at night.
    • Check your shoes before you put them on.
    • Shake out clothes, towels, and sleeping bags before using.
  2. Prevention – Around Your Home:
    • Clear away any piles of wood, debris that are near the house. Reason: scorpions hide there.
    • Weatherstrip your windows and doors.
    • Fix holes and cracks in the walls of the house.
    • Place the legs of a baby’s crib in wide-mouthed glass jars (scorpions can’t climb glass).
    • Hire a pest control expert for repeated problems with scorpions.
  3. Call Your Doctor If:

And remember, contact your doctor if you develop any of the ‘Call Your Doctor’ symptoms.

Disclaimer: this health information is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.

Last Reviewed:11/28/2021 1:00:46 AM
Last Updated:10/21/2021 1:00:49 AM

Copyright 2021 Amazon.com, Inc., or its affiliates.

90,000 First aid: what to do with a bite of poisonous snakes and insects

Summer is the sun, the beach, picnics in nature and trips to the country house when you want relaxation and carelessness. But at this time, it is more important than ever to be careful! In Azerbaijan, more and more people suffer from the bites of poisonous snakes, scorpions, spiders and insects, which are active in the summer. Unfortunately, without the right help, a person can die, but even those who survived a snakebite often become disabled.

We urge you to be very careful and remember the rules of first aid for snake and insect bites, which we have prepared in the framework of the project “First aid: what to do if” in partnership with experts from the Republican Diagnostic Center (RDM).

Bitten by a snake – what will you feel

Symptoms of poisoning from a snake bite depend on the amount of poison, the location of the bite and the time of year. Bites in the head, neck, and in places where blood vessels pass are especially dangerous. The snakes themselves are most dangerous on hot summer days: the higher the air temperature, the faster intoxication develops.Some snakes, like spiders, scorpions and insects, contain toxic substances in the body that pose a serious danger to human health if they enter the bloodstream.

If you are bitten by a snake, you will immediately feel a burning pain. At the site of the bite there will be two deep puncture wounds, redness, swelling, punctate hemorrhages under the skin, vesicles with fluid, necrotic ulcers. After a while, dizziness, nausea, sweating, shortness of breath, tachycardia are likely. After half an hour, the leg can almost double in volume.At the same time, signs of general poisoning appear: loss of strength, muscle weakness, vomiting, weak pulse, drop in blood pressure, fainting.

Usually snakes bite a person’s leg. With intradermal ingestion of poison, intoxication increases within 1-4 hours. Poisoning is more severe in children and women, as well as in persons under the influence of alcohol.

IMPORTANT! According to the WHO, every year in the world 5.8 million people are bitten by snakes, half of which are venomous.From snake venom 220-380 people die every day – from 80 thousand to 138 thousand a year.

Every minute counts!

First aid for snake bite

  1. The victim needs complete rest. He must be laid in a horizontal position and completely immobilized in order to slow down the flow of poison into the general circulation of the blood. If the snake has bitten on the leg, it should be tied to a healthy limb and put something under the knees so that they are slightly raised. If the hand is injured, it should be kept bent.
  2. The poison must be sucked off immediately. To do this, you need to squeeze the tissue surrounding the wound with your teeth, squeezing out and simultaneously sucking it out, and quickly spit out the extracted fluid. Another way to suck off poison is with a small jar or vial. Create a vacuum in the cavity of the jar by holding a flame and quickly place the jar with the neck over the wound. The poison should be sucked out continuously during the first 15 minutes – this will remove up to 50% of the poison from the victim’s body. In no case should you suck out the poison to someone who has cracks, sores or wounds on the lips and in the mouth.
  3. Disinfect the wound and apply a sterile dressing. It shouldn’t be too tight.
  4. Give the victim plenty of water to drink: the liquid will help remove the poison from the body.
  5. Try to get the victim to the hospital as soon as possible – this is very important.

What absolutely must not be done with a bite

  • Cauterize the bite site. If the snake has bitten through the skin, you will only burn the tissue, but you will not remove the poison.
  • Cut the bite site.Again, you will do more harm than good.
  • Do not take alcohol – it slows down the elimination of poison from the body.
  • Do not apply grass or other items that are close at hand to the wound. You can get an infection.

Who should be feared – poisonous snakes of Azerbaijan

There are 28 species of snakes in Azerbaijan, and only six of them are venomous. The most common is the gyurza, or the Levant viper. This is one of the most venomous snakes in the world. Gyurza poison causes tissue necrosis and shock.At first, the vessels are thrombosed, then fibrinogen disappears from the blood and complete incoagulability of the blood occurs. Fatal cases are frequent. Gyurza lives in all hot and arid lowlands, foothill steppes and dry forests of Azerbaijan. You can distinguish them from harmless snakes by their gray color and a zigzag pattern on the back, although there are also absolutely black vipers.

Usually snakes try to hide from a person in advance, because by the vibrations of the earth they sense the approach of any living creature.At night, snakes hide in shelters, so you can not be afraid of meeting them in the dark. The likelihood of stumbling upon a snake is high in the morning, when these cold-blooded animals crawl out to warm up.

The other five types of poisonous snakes that can be found in Azerbaijan are small mountain vipers, and are extremely rare. All other snakes – snakes, snakes, eirenis – are not poisonous. However, any unfamiliar snake is best considered dangerous. When meeting with her, you should be careful and be attentive.Snakes always warn of an attack: some shake their heads, others hiss or coils. Better to avoid dead snakes. For some of them, the poison can be active for a very long time, and an accidental prick with a dead snake’s tooth will also cause severe poisoning.

Here’s who else is dangerous

First aid for a scorpion bite

As with a snakebite, it is very important to react in a timely manner to the bite of a malicious insect. Symptoms are the same as with a snakebite.

  1. Try to squeeze out the poison, make a small incision in the bite and suck it out.The liquid must be spit out periodically. After completing the procedure, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
  2. Treat the affected area with alcohol and apply an antiseptic dressing. This will prevent germs from getting inside, which the scorpion could carry on its stinger.
  3. Apply cold or tight bandage to relieve swelling and reduce pain. This will slow down the spread of the poison throughout the body.
  4. The victim should be placed horizontally, ensuring complete immobility of the bitten limb.
  5. An injection of epinephrine or novocaine can be given at the site of the bite – this will temporarily block the absorption of the poison.
  6. The victim should be urgently taken to hospital for professional assistance and further treatment.

First aid for bee and wasp stings

Many are not serious about the sting of bees and wasps, but the consequences depend on the site of the bite and the state of health of the victim, who may have an allergy.

  1. The first step is to find and remove the sting containing insect venom.
  2. Wipe the bite site with a solution of alcohol or iodine.
  3. Apply cold to reduce pain and swelling.
  4. For prevention, you can drink an antihistamine to prevent an allergic reaction from the bite.
  5. In case of general symptoms of poisoning, as well as a bite in the pharynx, pharynx or eyes, the victim must be urgently taken to a medical facility.

First aid for spider bite

There are species of poisonous spiders in Azerbaijan, from the bite of which you also need to protect yourself.First aid in this case is identical to the above. With a bite of a karakurt or a black widow, pain occurs in an hour and a half. Symptoms such as dizziness, tremors may occur, the work of muscles, in particular, respiratory and heart, is disrupted, the victim has difficulty breathing.

  1. Apply cold to the affected area and give the victim paracetamol.
  2. If a spider has bitten an arm or leg, they must be lowered down and immobile to prevent the spread of poison.
  3. The wound should be bandaged. If it is impossible to bandage the area, press the wound and go to the doctor.
  4. Give the victim plenty of water to drink.

Our advice – how to protect yourself from the bites of poisonous snakes and insects

To protect yourself, of course, you need to be careful in those places where snakes and insects live, and also to prevent their appearance on the territory of your house. Snakes find places where the species they feed on, take cover and attack their prey.If a person is nearby, the snake, sensing danger, can attack him too.

  • Do not create favorable conditions for the habitation, hunting of snakes near the house. Find and eliminate the burrows of rodents, which snakes most often feed on, clear the area of ​​thickets.
  • Try to scare away snakes with non-toxic, non-polluting chemical solutions and substances. Such measures can be taken every 7-10 days. It should also be remembered that snakes adapt to smell, so protective equipment should be changed over time.
  • Seal cracks in houses, limit access to the cellars as much as possible, which are the favorite habitats of snakes.
  • Now, during the harvest season, people working in the field need to take safety measures. It is very important to wear high-toed shoes.
  • When hiking in the forest, take a stick with you, and do not go into places with tall grass and ravines.

Be attentive and healthy!

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90,000 15% discount on the insurance policy against a scorpion bite only on KONTI

Scorpion bite accident insurance

A traveler who has been bitten by a scorpion will receive monetary compensation for taking out an accident insurance policy.

In order to indicate such a risk when issuing an insurance policy, you must select the “Personal protection” option.

And according to the standard policy of traveling abroad – only medical assistance.

In this article you will learn about scorpions – who they are, where to meet and how to avoid being bitten.

Scorpions – a detachment of arthropods from the class of arachnids – live only in hot countries. The opinion that all scorpions are dangerous to humans is wrong. In fact, only 50 species out of almost two thousand can harm a person.

What does a scorpion look like?

Few have not seen the image of a scorpion in films or cartoons. The body of a scorpion is elongated, starting with a head and ending with a tail with a pear-shaped part, on which a needle with poison is located.

Where does the scorpion live?

As a rule, the favorite habitats of scorpions are countries with hot and warm climates. These arthropods are often found in southern Europe (Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Sicily, the Balkans), in Russia (Crimea and the North Caucasus), in America and Asia.

In addition to their usual habitats, scorpions are often found all over the world, excluding the Arctic and the extreme north.

During the day, scorpions hide behind stones and in rocks, and go hunting exclusively at night. Their movement speed is quite impressive. The main diet of arthropods is made up of insects and spiders, which they preliminarily kill with a sting.

What is the danger of a scorpion for humans?

Neurotoxic polypeptides, which are part of the venom of some scorpion species, are directed at insects and mammals.For a person, such a bite is especially painful, several times more painful than a snake bite. However, not all scorpions are dangerous; there are also harmless ones.

Still, you should be wary of scorpions – a poisonous bite can be fatal, especially for children.

What are the symptoms of a scorpion bite?

The traveler feels severe burning pain in the area of ​​the bite, then edema and tissue hyperemia begins. In this case, headaches, dizziness and weakness are observed. Impairment of consciousness and seizures may occur, along with muscle tremors.Children may develop pulmonary edema.

What to do in case of a scorpion bite?

The victim should be provided with anesthetic and heat applied to the site of the bite. If a scorpion stung a traveler in tropical countries, a special serum is needed.

What are the most dangerous scorpions?

Parabuthus transvaalicus is an African scorpion that can launch poison up to a meter away. The poison is not fatal, but if it gets into the eyes, it can cause severe suffering for the victim.

Uroplectes lineatus – lives in southeast Africa. The bite of such a scorpion can cause fever, and it is also particularly painful.

Buthus occitanus – inhabitant of the Middle East. The poison can cause breathing difficulties, dizziness and even vomiting.

Androctonus crassicauda – lives in Saudi Arabia, Iran and Turkey. The venom of such a scorpion is especially toxic and can pose a serious threat to humans.

Androctonus australis – North African scorpion, present in southern Asia. Scorpion venom can kill a healthy person in a few hours if not helped.

Leiurus quinquestriatus – observed in North America, Turkey and Saudi Arabia. A small dose of poison threatens with severe pain, but a full dose of poison will kill a healthy adult traveler in a couple of hours.

Going to the habitats of scorpions, do not forget about the insurance of outdoor activities with a 15% discount using the promotional code 000766917

90,000 Scorpios in Kazakhstan: myths and truth.How to save yourself from a bite?

If the Kazakh northerners saw the scorpion only in pictures, then the inhabitants of the southern regions have encountered it for sure. Scorpio is a lover of human dwellings. And this unpleasant neighborhood, especially if you live in the countryside, on the ground, can show up in your bed and in the shoes left on the doorstep. Both tourists and fishermen are well acquainted with it, who will surely find amber creatures, if not in a tent, then under it. Crushed, even inadvertently, the scorpion immediately, without hesitation, launches its formidable weapon – a poisonous needle at the end of its tail.And then … Death?

Hardly. The overwhelming number of Kazakhstani scorpions, the so-called variegated (although in fact yellow) Buthus eupeus, belong to a species that cannot be ranked among those poisonous inhabitants of the planet, close contact with which has inevitable fatal consequences.The number of deaths from their unplanned “injections” is unlikely to exceed the death rate from bee stings. It hurts – yes. It hurts very much! As if a red-hot needle had been stuck into the skin. And so for several hours. But the pain still subsides, and after a couple of days the bitten one looks like a cucumber again. A really dangerous scorpion needle can only be for babies.


Photo by Andrey Mikhailov


True, experienced Kazakhstanis pass from mouth to mouth horror stories about another scorpion, a black one, a meeting with which will most likely show the victim the right way to the cemetery.And this is fiction. One of the many legends associated with these unpleasant neighbors on the planet, the Creator vouchsafed people to live next to.

Let’s take a look at some of the common misconceptions in order.

1. Deadly black scorpions. Are they really so deadly?

The tropics are indeed inhabited by very dangerous representatives of the order, painted in dark colors. Their toxicity depends on the size (I have a dried Indo-Chinese specimen, the length of which without claws is 15 centimeters, and this is not the limit).A large scorpion has more venom. In addition, the poison itself, as the researchers note, the stronger the hotter the climate, which can be explained by the fierceness of the struggle for existence there. But in Kazakhstan there are neither such conditions nor such dimensions. Our black scorpions (Orthochirus scrobiculosis), which rarely reach 5 centimeters, are indeed considered more poisonous than their variegated counterparts. But they are also highly overrated by connoisseurs-amateurs. In addition, this scorpion is found in nature much less often than its amber cousin.


Photo by Andrey Mikhailov


2. Is it true that in case of danger, for example, a scorpion surrounded by burning coals sticks a sting into itself and commits suicide?

False. Although this delusion is very ancient, widespread and even backed up by the evidence of the classics. For example, Alfred Bram in his “Lives of Animals”, this bible of lovers of wildlife, writes that “… if a scorpion is subjected to any torture, for example., surround with fire, then he, not expecting death, attempts to commit suicide. “It is known that when heated, a scorpion begins to rush about in a chaotic way in search of a way out and waving its tail with a sting. It may seem that at the same time it inflicts fatal blows on itself. “falls dead.” But if you leave such a “dead” alone, then after a while a miraculous resurrection will occur. And it is not surprising. The scorpion’s own venom does not have any destructive effect on it. But heating above 50º can really kill.

3. Does the Scorpio really eat its offspring without a twinge of conscience?

Perfect vain! Cannibalism in arachnids does take place. However, like many of her spider cousins, the scorpion is an example of touching maternal care for her offspring. “Scorpion offspring usually consists of 20-50 tiny scorpions, similar to their mother. The female carries them on her back until they are able to get food for themselves” – this is the authoritative opinion of one of the best experts on the poisonous fauna of the USSR Fyodor Fedorovich Talyzin …

This list can be continued for a long time. Despite the fact that the scorpion, along with the cockroach, are the most long-lived inhabitants of the earth’s surface, they are still insufficiently studied. By and large, most of us do not care about this unique subject of adaptation to evolution – we are only interested in how to avoid a meeting and dodge the troubles he promises.


Photo by Andrey Mikhailov


What to do and where to run if the meeting and trouble could not be avoided? Not long ago, the universal principle was to see a doctor as soon as possible.Knowing the state of permanently reformed medicine and the qualifications of modern doctors in Kazakhstan, such an appeal may become for the bitten a naive shift from a sore head to a healthy one. And what if there is no doctor in the vicinity at all?

How can you minimize the effect of the poison in case of an accidental injection? Very simple. Here we cannot do without Professor P.I. Marikovsky, an ardent connoisseur and lover of Kazakhstani nature:

“Poisoning is not difficult to get rid of.It is necessary immediately, no later than 10-12 seconds after the injection, to attach the head of a match to the place where the injection was made with a poisonous sting and set it on fire with another match. At the injection site, a limited focus of the burn occurs, from which the absorption of the poison will occur so slowly that it will not cause almost any symptoms of poisoning … “

The method also used when biting a karakurt (it is much more serious in terms of consequences) was tested by Pavel Iustinovich on himself. And he showed his worth.The only hitch for use in modern conditions is the rapid replacement of matches by lighters. A burn from the flame of a lighter can also lead to the desired result, but, you must admit, there is something in this … from the dashing 90s! In any case, before using a lighter, you need to think about the fact that the trauma caused by the flame can lead to much more serious consequences than the poison of a scorpion.


Photo by Andrey Mikhailov


In any case, when meeting a scorpion, you need to remain calm and not panic.This is perhaps the main thing.

In this regard, I recall the story of the father of Vyacheslav Fedorovich Mikhailov, a native of Chimkent, about how in childhood, when he was five years old, he slept on the floor (sleeping on the floor in the summer heat is a charm known to all real southerners), and a scorpion crawled into it. And not just crawled – nestled on the neck. At this time, his grandmother (my great-grandmother) entered the room and saw a terrible picture. The situation was unpleasant. With any decisive movement (shouting, an attempt to wake up, press down, remove), the grandson would inevitably receive a poisonous injection in the neck or face.But grandmother-great-grandmother, herself a native of Aulie-Ata, was familiar with scorpions firsthand and showed amazing composure. She quietly left the room, took a broom, very carefully crept up to the sleeping boy and in a swift swing carried the scorpion from her neck.

Snake and scorpion bites. What to do and how to prevent it?

Doctor and blogger Daria asks Doctors Without Borders (MSF):

We are waiting for your questions around the clock to email info @ taktikiipraktiki.ru

The doctor of the organization “Médecins sans Frontières” answers Maria
Durasevich:
Not every bite
ends with the ingress of poison into the body. More than 50% of snake bites are called
dry just because intoxication does not occur. In case the poison is still
got into the body, the level of intoxication depends on the type of snake, the amount of poison,
bite sites (bites on the head and neck are the most dangerous), the weight of the person, as well as his
general health and age. So, for children, bites are always more dangerous than
for adults.If you know the type of snake that bit you, be sure to
inform the doctor about it during the examination! You need to contact him as soon as possible.
Doctors do not have a consensus on whether to try to suck the poison yourself, but in
in any case, you do not need to try to heal yourself – it is better to show up right away
specialist.

Daily morning check-up at the intensive care unit of MSF Clinic. The patient was bitten by a snake.
Susanne Doettling / MSF

Immediately after the bite you
you can see the marks of the fangs of the snake and feel pain in this place.If
you only have these symptoms, it is recommended:

– strict rest regimen;

– immobilization
limbs with a splint to stop the spread of poison;

– wound treatment;

– preventive
tetanus vaccination;

– Spawn Observation
symptoms of intoxication, so that in case of anaphylactic shock, the patient can
was quickly taken to the hospital. That is why you should not leave, for example,
far out of town.

The blood of a patient bitten by a snake did not clot.This indicates that the snake venom has entered the body.
Susanne Doettling / MSF

Regarding the bite
scorpion, in most cases it causes pain, swelling and erythema (redness)
directly at the site of the bite. You also need to urgently consult a doctor: he
treat the wound, offer oral pain relievers, and administer
preventive tetanus vaccination. Usually the victim is under supervision
12 hours.

MSF surgeon David Elliott performs a fasciotomy on a patient bitten by a snake.MSF

To Avoid Snake Bite
or a scorpion, it is worth following the minimum safety rules. If you
are in the area where these animals are found, beware of walking on
tall grass. When going for a walk, wear closed shoes above the ankle,
preferably from dense materials. By the way, before you put on your shoes, take a look at
boot – a small scorpion may be waiting for you there. When traveling to places
habitat of snakes, try to remember what the most common
local species, in order to inform the doctor in case of a bite which snake you are
bit.In case of severe intoxication, immediately re-contact
hospital!

Thank you for your cooperation,
provided photos and videos of “Doctors
without borders “

Donate
“Tactics” financially on the Patrion website!

90,000 What to do with a scorpion bite?

Scorpion bites can be painful, but in most cases they do not cause serious complications. A person with the following symptoms after being bitten by a scorpion needs immediate medical attention:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Drooling
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Cramps or muscle twitching
  • Hives and swelling all over the body
  • Difficulty standing up
  • Unconscious condition

What to do after a scorpion bite

If a person is bitten by a scorpion, they should:

  • wash the bite with soap and water
  • Apply ice to the bite site to relieve pain and swelling
  • Stay calm
  • Avoid taking sedatives

If a scorpion stings a child, then the actions of the parents depend on the reaction to the bite.Doctors recommend home care if symptoms are mild, such as pain, numbness, or tingling around the bite site. However, if your child had the last tetanus shot more than 10 years ago, you should inform your doctor about the bite. You should also call your doctor if skin redness begins to spread 24 hours after the bite.

Seek emergency help if an adult or child experiences:

  • muscle twitching and spasms
  • difficulty swallowing
  • drooling
  • weakness in the legs
  • unconsciousness
  • difficulty breathing
  • swelling or hives all over the body

According to Poison Control, young children are at greatest risk of developing severe symptoms.The elderly are also at risk of developing severe symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type of scorpion that stung the person. However, if in doubt, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. For mild symptoms such as pain and numbness at the site of the bite, the person needs:

  • cleaning the area around the bite
  • applying a cold compress
  • taking ibuprofen and acetaminophen to relieve pain
  • Raise the affected part of the body so that it was at the same level as the heart.

However, if a dangerous species of scorpion stings a person, treatment will depend on the severity of the bite:

  • Grade 1: Pain, swelling and other symptoms are limited to the area of ​​the bite, only pain relief is required.
  • Grade 2: There is pain and slight numbness, treatment includes pain relief and anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Grade 3: Symptoms of swinging limbs and arching of the back (skeletal neuromuscular dysfunction) or increased production of saliva, blurred vision, and rapid movement of the tongue (cranial nerve problems) appear.Treatment includes the use of pain relievers, anxiety medications, and antiviral medications.
  • Grade 4: The person will experience both skeletal neuromuscular dysfunction and cranial nerve problems, as well as organ failure, hyperthermia, or pulmonary edema.

Antivenom is critical for people experiencing these symptoms. However, according to toxicological control, many hospitals do not have antivenom supply.

Symptoms

For most bites, symptoms will consist of local reactions to the bite.Less than 10% of all scorpion bites cause severe symptoms. Young children and the elderly are likely to develop life-threatening reactions to the bite.

About 85% of scorpion bites cause only mild local reactions. About 10% cause pain in the legs or arms, and about 5% cause severe symptoms.

Mild symptoms of a scorpion bite may include:

  • tingling, pain, or numbness at the bite
  • limited or no swelling
  • pain or numbness that spreads up the arm or leg
  • symptoms usually last about 24 hours

If severe symptoms occur, they develop within 2–3 hours of being bitten.Rapid eye movements or muscle twitching may be the first serious symptom.

Other serious symptoms and complications may include:

twitching eye movements

  • blurry vision
  • muscle twitching
  • difficulty breathing
  • difficulty swallowing
  • slurred speech

Complications

in a person with a 4 severity of a bite, he may experience:

  • high body temperature
  • pulmonary edema
  • multiple organ failure
  • rhabdomyolysis, which occurs when muscle tissue breaks down and releases a protein called myoglobin into the blood

Prevention

Persons at risk of exposure should take the following steps:

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

A person should also carry adrenaline with them if they have a history of allergic reactions to insect bites.

Scorpios are most active at night. Therefore, people should take extra care when working outside at night.

When to see a doctor

A person should see a doctor if they have symptoms that worsen within 2-3 hours of being bitten.He needs emergency medical attention if there are serious, potentially life-threatening conditions that develop immediately after the bite.

Prognosis

In most cases, a scorpion bite will cause only local pain, burning or tingling. In these cases, the person will likely only need home treatment, which may include taking pain relievers, cleaning the bite site, and applying ice.

If symptoms are more severe, such as spreading pain or shortness of breath, the person will need medical attention.With the right medical treatment, the person will fully recover. On rare occasions and among vulnerable populations, including young children and the elderly, a person can die from a scorpion bite.

Conclusion

Scorpion bites are usually not life threatening. After the bite, wash the bite site with soap and water and seek medical attention. Often times, a person only needs home care, such as pain relievers and ice. However, more serious cases may require additional drugs and treatment.

Related Scientific Article: The toxin in scorpion venom will help unravel the mystery of chronic pain.

Before using the tips and advice on the website “Medical Insider” , , be sure to consult your doctor!

Scorpio prick: what to do?

Just don’t think that this Scorpio only exists in the desert, you will find them more often than you think. Especially in southern countries, it can always be stitch Scorpio come and you should know how to behave better after that.

What to do after a scorpion bite

Scorpions hide usually under rocks or in the ground . However, if you work in the garden or keep outdoors, then this may well lead to a scorpion prick. What then is to be done?

Call the poisoning center

Each country has a number that can be called in case of poisoning. Of course, there is also an emergency service everywhere. is important that you seek help.

Even if you think you are going to the emergency room alone, poison can immobilize you.

If you are alone now, then tell the center exactly where you are. they can send you an ambulance if needed.

Take a picture of a Scorpio

We already know that at this moment you do not want at all Selfie With a bad guy. However, you should still photograph the animal to do.

This way, the attending physician can quickly find out which scorpion has bitten you and which antidote you need.

Not all Scorpios are the same, they have different types of poison which cause different symptoms. Thus, photography is fundamental to act quickly. Remember also that some subspecies are fatal.

Our Reading Tip: Komodovaran: Meet the “monster”

Pay attention to symptoms

Even if you arrive at the Clinical Center on time and the doctor has taken care of you, you should still continue to monitor your symptoms closely, even at home.

You could worsen or even have new symptoms appear. It could also be that scorpion bites are not very common in the Area in which you are holding, and therefore you do not know so much about them.

Wash stitch

When you return home, you should give an injection with a lot of water and wash neutral soap so that it does not get infected. Just don’t try to suck the poison out. The medications that your doctor has prescribed for you take over this task.

Follow the doctor’s instructions exactly and do nothing else. Many people will want to give you a lot of good advice.

Keep the affected part of the body below the heart

So you prevent the increase in the poison through the veins and spreads in your body. Just try to stay calm and especially relax the affected body part. However, always keep it below your Heart.

Also put ice cream in a towel on.This not only relieves inflammation, but also makes the poison thicken a little. This makes it much more difficult for its distribution in the body. The point is that the poison does not affect other parts of your body.

See also: What diseases do dogs and humans share?

Don’t be afraid

Especially if you are alone, help you fear and nervousness are not in this, to think and act quickly . Therefore, it is important to stay as calm as possible.

Also remember that not all Scorpios are deadly. the smallest of them can do that kind of damage.

Perhaps it just needs a few medicines and a little medical attention, so that the injection of Scorpio was no more than one evil memory becomes.

This does not happen often, but you should still be informed about how to behave after being bitten by a scorpion. If you’re really out of luck with then just follow these tips.

dragonflies: facts about this great insect

Dragonflies are carnivorous predators that fulfill an important function in the ecosystem as they consume large numbers of mosquitoes.more details ”

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