Scorpion Sting Symptoms

Most people who suffer from scorpion stings are not keeping them as pets, but instead accidentally stumble upon these arachnids in nature. Of the hundreds of scorpion species in the world, only about two dozen are venomous enough to be lethal to healthy, adult human beings. Some stings can be fatal, however, or cause serious physical reactions, so it is important to know the signs of a scorpion sting and what to do you if you have been stung by a scorpion.

  1. Common Symptoms

    • Most people will have a reaction to a scorpion sting that is similar to a bee or wasp sting. Pain, tingling or a burning sensation may be felt at the sting site. For those who are more sensitive to scorpion venom, nausea, general weakness and malaise, and sweating may also occur.

    Serious Symptoms

    • If you are stung by a more toxic species of scorpion, or if you are highly allergic or reactive to scorpion venom, you could have a more serious reaction. Difficulty swallowing and breathing may occur. Other potential symptoms are blurred vision, a swollen tongue, trouble focusing the eyes and increased salivation. Some of the most worrisome symptoms of a serious scorpion sting can include seizures or convulsions, vomiting or diarrhea, heart palpitations, shock and extreme rises or drops in blood pressure.

    Warnings

    • Most adults do not have to worry about the effects of a scorpion sting. However, infants, the elderly and those already suffering health problems are at risk for serious effects from a sting. Not only can a scorpion sting be extremely painful for such people, they can also be fatal.

    Dangerous Scorpion Species

    • The majority of scorpion species in the world are no more dangerous to human beings than a bee or fire ant would be. In the United States, only one scorpion is known to be toxic enough to cause deaths in humans, and that is the Arizona bark scorpion. The most dangerous species in the world are the deathstalker and the fat-tailed scorpion, from North Africa and the Middle East. Many of the different scorpion species look similar to each other, so it can be hard to tell if you have been stung by one that could cause serious illness or not. It is best to seek medical treatment as soon as possible to be sure.

    Treatments

    • For a basic scorpion sting, the usual treatment consists of washing the site with water and soap and then packing it with a cold compress. Taking Tylenol is recommended for the pain, but not ibuprofen or aspirin as they can cause issues with your blood. With more venomous stings you may need anti-venom therapy which must be administered by a medical professional. In either case, it is important to consult a doctor as soon as possible after being stung.