Scorpions play a crucial role in the ecosystem. They feed on insects, which keeps their population in check. To do this, they hunt using venom found in their tails designed to incapacitate their next meal. But there is another time they use their stings — to defend themselves when threatened.
There are many instances where a scorpion can feel threatened by a human. For example, they may find shelter in your shoe. While putting it on, they will strike to prevent getting crushed. They also often hide in bed linens, firewood, garbage pails, and clothes.
As you can imagine, there are many instances where someone can experience a scorpion sting.
Scorpion Sting Symptoms
Scorpion sting symptoms vary depending on the species. The majority of scorpion stings cause localized symptoms only. That means the victim will feel warmth and pain on the site of the sting itself. Scorpion sting symptoms can include intense pain, numbness around the sting, and swelling.
However, there are scorpion venoms that do a whole lot more than cause pain, such as:
- Difficulty in breathing
- Muscle twitching
- Unusual head, neck, and eye movements
- Sweating profusely
- High blood pressure
- Drooling
- Irregular heartbeat
- Elevated pulse rate
- Nausea and vomiting
- Inconsolable crying
- Restlessness
There are cases where an allergic reaction is developed in people who experience multiple scorpion stings. That can become severe enough to become a life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis, which leads to troubled breathing.
Other Complications From Scorpion Stings
There have been fatalities because of scorpion stings. The most vulnerable are children and older adults, especially if they have pre-existing conditions like a weak heart. Children can encounter a scorpion and play with it out of curiosity, leading to getting stung. Their smaller bodies may have a difficult time dealing with the venom.
Most deaths associated with scorpion stings are due to heart or lung failures a few hours after they were stung. While that is very rare in the United States, it has happened previously.
Preventing Scorpion Stings
The best treatment for anything is to prevent them from happening in the first place. To avoid scorpion stings, you should be aware of their behavior. Since they like to stay in clothes and shoes, always check before wearing them. More importantly, do not handle scorpions with your bare hands.
Scorpion Sting Treatment
The treatment of a scorpion sting depends on the type that caused the injury. That is why you should note what it looks like if you or someone close to you gets stung. The information will help medical personnel determine the best course of action.
What you can do at home or as first aid includes:
- Use soap and water to clean the site of the sting.
- Apply a cold compress or ice to the affected area.
- Elevate the limb that has the sting above your heart.
- You can take over-the-counter pain relief medication.
Seek immediate medical attention if you are experiencing breathing issues and other signs of an allergic reaction.
Get Fast Scorpion Sting Treatment at PRESNow 24/7 Urgent and Emergency Care
Scorpions live in populated areas. There is a chance you will encounter them in the right conditions. If you have access to proper medical care, you can avoid complications. If you are unsure what scorpion stung you and you have other symptoms other than the pain, you should seek medical attention.
Unlike most ERs or urgent care centers in the area, PRESNow 24/7 Urgent and Emergency Care in Albuquerque, patients are only billed for the level of services they need. The ER and urgent care are open 24 hours a day, every day. No appointment is required for in-person visits.
PRESNow 24/7 Urgent and Emergency Care has four convenient locations:
- PRESNow 24/7 Urgent and Emergency Care Paseo/San Pedro is located at 6400 Paseo Del Norte Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113, and may be reached at 505-596-2100.
- PRESNow 24/7 Urgent and Emergency Care Coors/Western Trail is located at 4515 Coors Blvd. NW Albuquerque, NM 87120, and may be reached at 505-596-2200.
- PRESNow 24/7 Urgent and Emergency Care Isleta/Rio Bravo is located at 3436 Isleta Blvd SW, Albuquerque, NM 87105, and may be reached at 505-596-2300.
- PRESNow 24/7 Urgent and Emergency Care Menaul/Pennsylvania is located at 7400 Menaul Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110, and may be reached at 505-596-2400.
