A Scorpion’s Sting

All scorpion species possess toxic venom, but most scorpions are relatively harmless to humans. Scorpions are generally not able to deliver enough poison to kill a healthy adult and their sting produces only local pain, numbness, or swelling. Any serious effects, or deaths, would normally happen with the young, elderly, infirm, or people who may be allergic to the venom of some species.

In the past 20 years there haven't been any reported fatalities due to scorpion stings.

The only species of scorpion in North America that has venom potent enough to be dangerous to humans is the Arizona Bark Scorpion. The effects of its sting will be severe pain and swelling at the site of the sting, numbness, frothing at the mouth, breathing difficulties, muscle twitching and convulsions. Immediate medial attention must be sought.

Other than the Bark Scorpion, common symptoms of a scorpion sting are:

- Pain, tingling or burning sensation at the sting site;
- A feeling of general discomfort, or uneasiness;
- Sweating, nausea, salivating, or vomiting;
- Numbness, heart palpitations, and muscle twitching (including neck, eye and head);
- Breathing difficulties may occur.

More severe reactions include:

- Blurring of consciousness, or unconsciousness;
- Fall in blood pressure, shock and convulsions.

Treatment of a scorpion sting:

If you are stung or injured by accident while cleaning your pets cage –

- clean the wound with antiseptic;
- apply a cool washcloth or ice pack to the area for ten minutes and repeat as necessary;

If you start having any type of severe reaction to a sting, immediately seek medical attention.

Poison Control Center:
Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week

Poison Help Hotling: 1-800-222-1222

Poison Control and Drug Information Center: 1-800-326-0101