What to Do When Stung by a Scorpion

The Bark Scorpion is common to Arizona, New Mexico,
and parts of California. Photo by Musides. Wikimedia

Being "bitten" by a scorpion is a scary experience.  The media often portrays them as man-killers and the effects of an actual sting can be a source of understandable anxiety and fear.

The Bark Scorpion, common in the North American Southwest, is particularly venomous and its sting should be treated seriously.  This does not mean, however, that you need to rush to the emergency room immediately.

For adults, getting stung by a bark scorpion usually results in little more than 12 to 24 hours of pain, numbness and some muscle twitching near the affected area.  It is extremely unpleasant, but not life threatening.  However, for children, a scorpion sting can be quite dangerous and requires medical attention. 

Common Reactions to Scorpion Stings in Adults:

• Localized, intense pain that may slowly spread away from the sting site
• Numbness and/or tingling that spreads to the extremities, throat and nose
• Increased heart rate and high blood pressure
• Muscle twitching and involuntary movement, particularly if stung on the arm or leg
• Rapid breathing
• Muscle Weakness 

Common Reactions in Children

• Scorpion stings do not usually swell or have an easily visible injection site, so do not rely on visual confirmation
• Intense pain
• Numbness and/or tingling
• Muscle spasms, including uncontrollable neck, head and eye movements
• Drooling
• Sweating
• Inability to calm down, uncontrollable crying

How to Treat a Scorpion Sting

• If you suspect a child has been stung by a scorpion, seek immediate medical attention
•  Wash the sting site with soap and water to help prevent infection
• Applying a cold compress or cold washcloth to the area around the sting site may help reduce the pain a little.  Over-the-counter pain medication can also help take the edge off as well.
• Wait.  For most people, the only thing to do is allow the venom to run its course.  Scorpion stings take approximately 6 hours to reach their height and can take over 24 hours for the pain to significantly decrease.  Other symptoms, such as numbness of the fingers and feet, may take several days to subside.

When to Seek Medical Attention

• If anyone stung by a scorpion experiences symptoms of anaphylactic shock (severe allergic reaction), blurry vision, trouble breathing or widespread symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
• If  you are concerned or unsure of what to do, contact your local poison control center for advice.