Stone

Stonefish symptoms. Stonefish Sting: Symptoms, Treatment, and Essential Information

What are the symptoms of a stonefish sting. How to treat a stonefish sting at home. Where are stonefish found. What to do before calling emergency services for a stonefish sting.

Understanding Stonefish and Their Venomous Nature

Stonefish, belonging to the Scorpaenidae family, are masters of camouflage in their aquatic habitats. These enigmatic creatures, which include zebrafish and lionfish, possess a unique defense mechanism that makes them particularly dangerous to unsuspecting humans. Their fins are equipped with sharp spines that carry a potent venom, capable of causing severe pain and potentially life-threatening symptoms.

Are stonefish found only in the wild? While stonefish primarily inhabit tropical waters, including areas off the warm coasts of the United States, they have also become popular additions to aquariums worldwide. This means that encounters with these venomous fish are not limited to natural habitats, increasing the importance of awareness and caution.

Recognizing the Symptoms of a Stonefish Sting

A stonefish sting is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate attention. The venom injected through their spines can cause a range of symptoms, varying in severity and affecting different body systems. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for prompt recognition and treatment.

Immediate and Localized Symptoms

  • Intense pain at the sting site, rapidly spreading to the entire limb
  • Severe swelling, potentially affecting an entire arm or leg within minutes
  • Bleeding at the wound site
  • Discoloration of the affected area, often appearing lighter initially

Systemic Symptoms

As the venom spreads through the body, it can cause a variety of systemic symptoms:

  1. Cardiovascular effects:
    • Irregular heartbeat
    • Low blood pressure
    • In severe cases, cardiac arrest
  2. Respiratory issues:
    • Difficulty breathing
  3. Gastrointestinal distress:
    • Abdominal pain
    • Nausea and vomiting
    • Diarrhea
  4. Neurological symptoms:
    • Headache
    • Anxiety
    • Delirium (agitation and confusion)
    • Numbness and tingling, radiating from the sting site
    • Muscle twitching
    • In severe cases, paralysis or seizures

Immediate First Aid for Stonefish Stings

When faced with a stonefish sting, quick and appropriate action can significantly impact the outcome. Here are the essential steps to take:

  1. Seek medical help immediately by contacting local emergency services.
  2. Wash the affected area thoroughly with fresh water.
  3. Carefully remove any visible debris, such as sand, from the wound site.
  4. Immerse the wounded area in hot water (as hot as the person can tolerate without burning) for 30 to 90 minutes. This helps to neutralize the venom and alleviate pain.

Is hot water treatment effective for all marine creature stings? While hot water immersion is particularly effective for stonefish stings, it’s important to note that this treatment may not be suitable for all marine creature envenomations. Always seek professional medical advice for the most appropriate treatment.

Critical Information for Emergency Responders

When calling emergency services, having specific information readily available can help responders provide the most effective care. Be prepared to provide the following details:

  • The victim’s age, weight, and general health condition
  • The type of fish involved in the sting, if known
  • The exact time when the sting occurred
  • The precise location of the sting on the body

This information allows medical professionals to tailor their treatment approach, potentially improving outcomes for the victim.

The Role of Poison Control Centers in Stonefish Sting Management

Poison control centers play a crucial role in managing stonefish stings and other envenomations. These centers are staffed by experts who can provide valuable guidance on treatment and symptom management. In the United States, the national Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) is available 24/7 and can connect callers to their local poison center for immediate assistance.

How can poison control centers assist in stonefish sting cases? These centers can offer expert advice on:

  • Proper first aid techniques
  • Symptom assessment and management
  • Guidance on when to seek emergency medical care
  • Information on potential complications and long-term effects

Prevention: The Key to Avoiding Stonefish Encounters

While treatment options exist, prevention remains the best approach to dealing with stonefish stings. Understanding the habitats and behavior of these creatures can significantly reduce the risk of encounters.

In Natural Habitats

  • Wear protective footwear when walking in shallow coastal waters or on rocky sea floors
  • Avoid touching or stepping on rocks or coral, as stonefish often camouflage themselves in these areas
  • Use a stick or pole to probe the ground ahead when wading in unfamiliar waters
  • Stay informed about local marine life and any warnings issued by authorities

In Aquarium Settings

  • Always use protective gloves when handling aquarium equipment or cleaning tanks that may house stonefish
  • Educate yourself about the specific care requirements and handling precautions for stonefish if keeping them as pets
  • Ensure proper signage and warnings are in place for public aquariums housing stonefish

Long-term Effects and Recovery from Stonefish Stings

While immediate treatment is crucial, understanding the potential long-term effects of a stonefish sting is equally important for comprehensive care and recovery.

Possible Complications

  • Chronic pain at the sting site
  • Nerve damage leading to persistent numbness or tingling
  • Muscle weakness or atrophy in the affected limb
  • Scarring at the wound site
  • Psychological effects, such as anxiety or phobias related to marine environments

Can stonefish stings cause long-term health issues? While most people recover fully from stonefish stings with proper treatment, some individuals may experience lingering effects. The severity and duration of these effects can vary based on factors such as:

  • The amount of venom injected
  • The location of the sting
  • The promptness and effectiveness of treatment
  • Individual health factors and immune response

Recovery Process

The recovery from a stonefish sting is often a gradual process that may involve:

  1. Ongoing pain management
  2. Physical therapy to restore function and strength to the affected area
  3. Regular medical check-ups to monitor healing and address any complications
  4. Psychological support, if needed, to address any trauma or anxiety resulting from the incident

How long does recovery from a stonefish sting typically take? The recovery period can vary significantly among individuals. While some people may recover within a few weeks, others might experience symptoms for several months. Factors influencing recovery time include the severity of the sting, the individual’s overall health, and the quality of medical care received.

Advancements in Stonefish Venom Research and Treatment

As marine biology and medical research continue to advance, our understanding of stonefish venom and potential treatments is evolving. Recent developments in this field offer promising insights for improved management of stonefish stings.

Antivenom Development

Stonefish antivenom, derived from horse antibodies, has been available since the 1960s. However, ongoing research aims to improve its efficacy and reduce potential side effects. Some areas of focus include:

  • Development of more specific and potent antivenoms
  • Exploration of alternative sources for antivenom production, such as camelid antibodies
  • Research into oral antidote formulations for easier administration in remote locations

Venom Component Analysis

Scientists are delving deeper into the complex composition of stonefish venom to better understand its mechanisms of action. This research could lead to:

  • More targeted treatment approaches
  • Development of novel pain management strategies based on venom components
  • Potential applications in drug development for various medical conditions

How might understanding stonefish venom contribute to medical advancements? The unique properties of stonefish venom components could potentially be harnessed for therapeutic purposes, such as:

  • Development of new analgesics
  • Exploration of anti-cancer properties found in certain venom proteins
  • Creation of tools for studying ion channels and neurotransmitter systems

Global Impact: Stonefish Stings in Different Regions

While stonefish are primarily associated with tropical waters, their impact is felt globally due to their presence in aquariums and the movement of people across different marine environments.

Regional Variations in Stonefish Species and Venom Potency

Different species of stonefish are found in various parts of the world, each with potentially varying venom compositions and potencies. Some notable regions include:

  • Indo-Pacific: Home to the most venomous species, including Synanceia horrida
  • Red Sea: Contains several stonefish species, posing risks to tourists and locals alike
  • Caribbean: While less common, some scorpionfish species related to stonefish are present
  • Mediterranean: Occasional reports of stonefish-like species, though less frequent than in tropical areas

Impact on Tourism and Local Communities

The presence of stonefish in popular coastal destinations can have significant implications:

  • Economic impact on tourism industries in affected areas
  • Need for public awareness campaigns and safety measures in high-risk zones
  • Challenges for local healthcare systems in providing appropriate treatment

How do different regions manage the risk of stonefish encounters? Approaches vary but may include:

  • Installation of protective nets in popular swimming areas
  • Regular surveys and removal of stonefish from high-traffic beach zones
  • Distribution of educational materials to tourists and locals
  • Training of local healthcare providers in stonefish sting management

The Role of Technology in Stonefish Detection and Prevention

As technology advances, new tools and methods are being developed to help detect and prevent stonefish encounters. These innovations have the potential to significantly reduce the risk of stings and improve safety in marine environments.

Underwater Imaging and AI

Emerging technologies in underwater imaging and artificial intelligence are showing promise in stonefish detection:

  • AI-powered cameras that can identify camouflaged stonefish in real-time
  • Sonar systems adapted to detect the unique signatures of stonefish
  • Drone technology for aerial surveys of shallow coastal waters

Mobile Applications and Wearable Tech

Consumer-focused technologies are also being developed to enhance awareness and safety:

  • Smartphone apps providing real-time alerts about stonefish sightings in specific areas
  • Wearable devices that can detect changes in water chemistry associated with stonefish presence
  • Augmented reality systems for snorkelers and divers to highlight potential danger zones

How effective are these technological solutions in preventing stonefish encounters? While promising, these technologies are still in various stages of development and testing. Their effectiveness will depend on factors such as:

  • Accuracy and reliability of detection methods
  • Widespread adoption and integration into existing safety protocols
  • User engagement and proper utilization of the technology
  • Ongoing refinement based on real-world performance and feedback

As research continues and these technologies evolve, they have the potential to become valuable tools in the prevention of stonefish stings, complementing traditional safety measures and public awareness efforts.

Stonefish sting Information | Mount Sinai






Stonefish are members of the family Scorpaenidae, or scorpion fish. The family also includes zebrafish and lionfish. These fish are very good at hiding in their surroundings. The fins of these prickly fish carry toxic venom. This article describes the effects of a sting from this kind of fish.

This article is for information only. DO NOT use it to treat or manage an actual stonefish 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

Stonefish venom is toxic.












Where Found

Venomous stonefish and related sea animals live in tropical waters, including off the warm coasts of the United States. They are also considered prized aquarium fish, and are found worldwide in aquariums.












Symptoms

A stonefish sting causes intense pain and swelling at the site of the sting. Swelling can spread to an entire arm or leg within minutes.

Below are symptoms of a stonefish sting in different parts of the body.

AIRWAYS AND LUNGS

  • Difficulty breathing

HEART AND BLOOD

  • No heartbeat
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Low blood pressure
  • Collapse (shock)

SKIN

  • Bleeding.
  • Severe pain at the site of the sting. Pain can spread quickly into the entire limb.
  • Lighter color of the area around the sting.
  • Change to the color of the area as oxygen decreases.

STOMACH AND INTESTINES

  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea and vomiting

NERVOUS SYSTEM

  • Anxiety
  • Delirium (agitation and confusion)
  • Fainting
  • Fever (from infection)
  • Headache
  • Muscle twitching
  • Numbness and tingling, spreading out from the site of the sting
  • Paralysis
  • Seizures
  • Tremors (shaking)












Home Care

Seek medical help right away. Contact your local emergency services. Wash the area with fresh water. Remove any debris, such as sand, at the wound site. Soak wound in the hottest water the person can tolerate for 30 to 90 minutes.












Before Calling Emergency

Have this information ready:

  • Person’s age, weight, and condition
  • Type of fish, if known
  • 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

The health care provider will measure and monitor the person’s vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. The wound will be soaked in a cleaning solution and any remaining debris will be removed. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate. Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

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












Outlook (Prognosis)

Recovery usually takes about 24 to 48 hours. Outcome often depends on how much venom entered the body, the location of the sting, and how soon the person received treatment. Numbness or tingling may last for several weeks after the sting. Skin breakdown is sometimes severe enough to require surgery.

A puncture to the person’s chest or abdomen may lead to death.








Elston DM. Bites and stings. In: Bolognia JL, Schaffer JV, Cerroni L, eds. Dermatology, 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 85.

Auerbach PS, DiTullio AE. Envenomation by aquatic vertebrates. In: Auerbach PS, Cushing TA, Harris NS. eds. Auerbach’s Wilderness Medicine. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2017:chap 75.

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.

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.


Stonefish • LITFL • Toxinology Library

The family Scorpaenidae (Scorpionfish) contains around 45 genera and 380 species. Scorpionfishes have large, heavily ridged heads and venomous spines on their back and fins. They are generally well camouflaged with tassels, warts and colored specks and some scorpionfishes (but not stonefish) can change their color to better match their surroundings. Most scorpion fishes live on or near the bottom of the ocean floor and can be found all around the world including from the Red Sea, Pacific Ocean, Australia, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

They feed on crustaceans, cephalopods and fishes employing a lie-in-wait strategy, remaining stationary and snapping prey that comes near. With their mouth they create a vacuum and suck prey in during a nearly imperceptible split-second movement (15 milliseconds).

Scorpionfishes are not aggressive, but if threatened they will erect their dorsal spines. If danger continues they flee, usually very fast but only for a short distance and then quickly settle back and freeze. The stonefishes for example usually bury themselves in sand or rubble using a shoveling motion of their pectoral fins. In a matter of less than 10 seconds only the dorsal portion of the head remains exposed, some sand is thrown on top to further enhancing concealment.

Scorpaenidae family includes:

  • Scorpionfish
  • Stonefish (Synanceia verrucosa and Synanceia horrida) – the worlds most venomous fish
  • Lionfish or Turkeyfish (Dendrochirus and Pterois)
  • Stingfish (Choridactylus)
  • Spiny devilfish (Inimicus didactylus)
    • Devilfishes (also called sea goblins, bearded ghouls and demon stingers) have very special pectoral fin rays that can be moved independently from the rest of the fin. This looks as if the devilfish was walking over the ground. Devilfishes occur on sand and mud bottoms close to reefs and in seagrass meadows. They often bury themselves in the substrate.

Stonefish (Synanceia verrucosa)

The stonefish is the worlds most venomous fish. Stonefish are extremely well camouflaged reef fish found in the waters of northern Australia. Their dorsal spines contain venom, which is injected when external pressure is applied. It is extremely difficult to see because it usually buries most of its body under sand or rubble and only their widely separated eyes show. Often algae and hydroids grow on its back. There is some suggestion that stonfishes exude a white, milky substance over their bodies which encourages plant growth. Their near perfect camouflage and the venomous spines make them a hazard for swimmers, snorkelers and divers in shallow water.

Resus
  • Not life threatening
Risk Assessment

Geographical distribution includes the northern shore of Australia, North of Geraldton on the West and North of Brisbane on the East.

Typical symptoms include:

  • Intense pain at the sting site.
  • Local swelling and bruising maybe seen. Also inspect the area for a retained spine
  • Systemic features can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and dyspnoea
  • Rarely patients can develop hypotension, bradycardia, collapse, pulmonary oedema and cyanosis

Supportive Care

  • Hot water Place affected area in a shower or a bowl of hot water – approx 45 degrees, should be hot but not scalding or uncomfortable for 20 minutes.
  • Analgesia Simple analgesia such as paracetamol and ibuprofen.
  • If pain is refractory to the above treatment then IV morphine or equivalent opiates maybe required. Other strategies may involve regional blocks with a long acting anaesthetic. If you have anaesthetised the skin and are still using hot water therapy – make sure there is another limb in the water to make sure you are not causing secondary burns.
  • The use of antibiotics is controversial but there is potential risk of a marine infection, a discussion with the patient re: observation or prophylactic antibiotics would be reasonable
Investigations
  • May require an X-ray or ultrasound to look for a retained foreign body.
Differential Diagnosis:
  • Other fish stings or stingray injuries
Antivenom
  • CSL stonefish antivenom is used if the patient is refractory to IV opioid analgesia, regional block or has features of systemic envenomation. See link for further details.
  • Give 1 ampoule for every two spine puncture wounds to a maximum of 3 ampoules, undiluted IM injection or diluted in 100ml of 0.9% saline IV over 20 minutes (we do not know whether it is best to give the antivenom IV or IM).
Disposition
  • If there are no signs of systemic envenomation by two hours the patient can be discharged.
  • If requiring IV opiates or antivenom the patient should be observed for four hours to see if they remain asymptomatic
  • All patients should be warned about the risk of infection and to look for signs of secondary infection.
References and Additional Resources:

Additional Resources:

  • Stonefish antivenom

References:

  • Lee JYL, Tech LC, Leo SPM. Stonefish envenomation of the hand – a local marine hazard. A series of 8 cases and review of the literature. Annals of the Academy of Medicine Singapore 2004; 33:515-520
  • Little M. Stonefish (Syanceia species) sting. Emergency Medicine 1990; 2(4):5
  • Ngo SYA, Ong SHJ, Ponampalam R. Stonefish envenomation presenting to a Singapore hospital. Singapore Medical Journal 2009; 50:506-509
  • White J. A clinician’s guide to Australian venomous bites and stings: Incorporating the updated CSL antivenom handbook. Melbourne: CSL Ltd, 2012

Neil Long

Dr Neil Long BMBS FACEM FRCEM FRCPC. Emergency Physician at Kelowna hospital, British Columbia. Loves the misery of alpine climbing and working in austere environments (namely tertiary trauma centres). Supporter of FOAMed, lifelong education and trying to find that elusive peak performance.

Ciguatera poisoning: causes, symptoms, signs, treatment, diagnosis, prevention

Overview

Ciguatera poisoning occurs as a result of eating tropical fish contaminated with poisonous algae. If a person eats such a fish, then nausea, vomiting and tingling of the fingers occur. Symptoms mostly go away on their own, but it is important to see a doctor if more serious problems develop. Ciguatera poisoning mainly occurs after eating fish such as barracuda, sea or stone bass, snapper, mullet and similar fish that are found in coral reefs. Often such fish are caught in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, other South Pacific Islands and the Indian Ocean. Since tropical fish are sold in shops all over the world, ciguatera poisoning can happen anywhere.

What to expect

Contaminated fish does not taste or smell suspicious. Symptoms begin within a few minutes or within a day of eating the fish and usually resolve within 1-4 weeks. Treatment may not help to completely get rid of the disease, but helps in controlling the symptoms. Most patients recover without any problems, but in rare cases, symptoms can last for many months or years. Although very rare, ciguatera poisoning can cause life-threatening seizures or respiratory problems.

Condition may worsen due to

1) lack of treatment;

2) consumption of alcohol and fish.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask clarifying questions and conduct a general examination. Ciguatera poisoning may occur infrequently in your area, so the physician may not be aware of its symptoms. Help him by remembering what kind of fish you ate before the poisoning. Other tests may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis, and the doctor may ask you to bring a sample of that fish.

Treatment

Treatment of ciguatera poisoning includes :

  • antihistamines and cold showers to reduce itching;
  • activated charcoal to reduce intoxication;
  • antiemetics to prevent dehydration;
  • other means.
Self-treatment

Ciguatera poisoning always needs competent treatment. Stick to your doctor’s advice. When you recover, do not consume alcohol and fish, shellfish, nuts or vegetable oil from them, because this may worsen the symptoms.

When to see a doctor

If you experience any of the symptoms of ciguatera poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting after eating fish, see a doctor right away or call the emergency room.

Risk factors

1) barracuda;

2) sea or stone perch;

3) snapper;

4) black-finned vendace;

5) seriola;

6) dog fish;

7) king mackerel;

8) sea bass;

9) loach.

characteristics, habitat, danger to humans

Contents

  1. Characteristics
  2. Habitats
  3. Danger to humans

hides under rocks and reefs. That is why it is called so – stone fish. This animal produces a deadly toxin for humans and one touch to it can cost a life. That is why it is worth knowing all the habits of the fish and the dangers that may come from it.

Marine

63.5%

River

27.46%

Don’t like fish

9.04%

Voted: 4038

Description

Stone fish is a predator that paralyzes its prey with its poison, and while it is lost from such sudden paralysis and pain – attacks and eats it. Outwardly, the wart does not look remarkable, as the photos of the wart show. Basically, these are small individuals about 40-30 cm long. Their entire body is covered with special warts, scales and irregularities that look like stones or reefs. For such skin, the animal received a second name – fish – wart.

The color of the fish is usually dark brown, dark green or sand, as shown in the photo. The color tone looks different depending on the environment, as the animal knows how to mimic under it.

Main appearance characteristics:

  • large head with small eyes and huge mouth;
  • front fins are located below on the chest, stand obliquely in relation to the body;
  • The dorsal fin consists of 12-14 spines that the warthog can retract and release. These spikes contain glands that produce a deadly cocktail;
  • she has three more pelvic and two anal forceps with toxic secretions;
  • the whole body is covered with warts, growths and other irregularities.

Yandex pictures

The fish lives mainly on the bottom of the oceans and seas, and also loves to settle in coral reefs. Here she can calmly track down and set her prey on fire, and a large number of tasty victims will always swim by.

The animal is very fond of shallow water with a lot of rocks, algae or reefs – different places where you can hide. She leads a sedentary lifestyle.

When the wartfish senses the slightest movement in the water and the approach of prey, it shoots sharp spikes from its back. They contain deadly poison. The victim, when hit by the toxin, is instantly pierced by acute pain and gradually paralysis develops. At this moment, the predator attacks its prey.

The main diet of the warthog is small fish, shrimps, and other crustaceans. The wart swallows the prey whole and digests it, so it copes with the shell of shrimp or crustaceans.

Interesting! The wart can sit motionless for days waiting for prey, but when the right moment comes, it instantly attacks. This is not only the most poisonous, but also the fastest fish in the world. It can take as little as 0.015 seconds from the moment of an injection to an attack. During this time, it will have time to turn around, grab and swallow the victim whole.

Due to their unusual appearance and fame, the most dangerous fish can often be found in the aquariums of restaurants and shopping centers. Since there were many warts near the coast of Japan, in the traditional cuisine of this country, these animals are often used to prepare various dishes:

  • sashimi;
  • sushi;
  • soups.

Despite the presence of a secret in the thorns, the meat of the stone fish is extremely tasty and healthy. It is distinguished by:

  • delicate texture;
  • high in protein;
  • high in Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

It is for these qualities that this meat is so valued in Japan, where it is a very expensive delicacy. However, before cooking, the entire dorsal part with spikes is completely removed from the carcass.

Habitats

Stonefish inhabit shallow areas in oceans and seas. Most often, this animal can be found in the shallow waters of reservoirs:

  1. of the Pacific and Indian oceans.
  2. In the Red Sea and the waters of its basin.
  3. On the Great Barrier Reef.
  4. Off the coast of Australia.
  5. Off the coast of Indonesia.
  6. Around the Philippine and Marshall Islands.
  7. In Fiji and Samoa.
  8. In the Mediterranean.
  9. Near the southern islands of Japan.

These waters offer ideal conditions for rockfish: calm and warm water, plenty of hiding places, plenty of food. That is why there have always been a lot of warts here.

pexels

Interesting! The ebbs and flows of this wart are not terrible. She can easily go without water for 20-24 hours. In the event of a strong ebb, she will calmly remain in her place. And the coming tide will immediately bring her tasty and varied food.

Danger for humans

The most poisonous fish stone can easily kill a person with its secret – the composition in its spikes is so strong. The poison has a protein structure, which is why it is quickly absorbed by the body and penetrates into the blood vessels, from where it enters the heart.

If a person is pricked by wart thorns, then the lethal end can come in a few hours. That is why the toxin is so dangerous. To provide timely assistance to the victim, it is necessary: ​​

  1. Apply a tight bandage over the injection site.
  2. Apply as hot a compress as possible or even cauterize the injection site. Since the toxin has a protein base, it will disintegrate when the temperature rises above 60 degrees, but burns may remain on the body.
  3. Take the person to the hospital.

The toxin acts on the nerve endings, due to which, when the wart is pricked with a thorn, severe pain and numbness immediately occur. Gradually, these symptoms spread to the whole body. Swelling and redness quickly form around the injection site.

Yandex pictures

If the poison enters a large blood vessel, then heart damage is possible in a couple of hours.

Over time, the toxins of the poison enter the heart and lungs, where paralysis occurs and the organs cease to function.

Important! The venom of the stone fish is more powerful and dangerous than the venom of the cobra, but is similar to this toxin in its action.

If the victim was able to receive timely assistance and survived, then the remains of toxic substances will be removed from the body for several more months.