Video:How to Handle a Scorpion Sting

Transcript:How to Handle a Scorpion Sting

Scorpions don't bite, but scorpions sometimes sting. If you remain calm, it is not difficult to treat a scorpion sting.

Scorpion Stings Are Rarely Fatal

Even if you are stung by the Arizona bark scorpion – the most dangerous and venomous of the Arizona scorpions – it is not likely to be fatal or even to have long-lasting effects. Local medical centers are familiar with the treatment.

Recognize Scorpion Sting Symptoms and Act Quickly

It is important to recognize scorpion sting symptoms: immediate pain or burning, very little swelling, sensitivity to touch, and a numbness or tingling sensation. If you are stung by any scorpion, there are some immediate actions you should take:

• 1. Wash the area of the scorpion sting with soap and water.
• 2. Apply a cool compress on the area of the scorpion sting. Ice (wrapped in a washcloth or other suitable covering) may be applied to the sting location for 10 minutes. Remove compress for 10 minutes and repeat as necessary.
• 3. If stung on the arm or leg, elevate the limb to heart level.
• 4. Call the Banner Poison Control Center Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. If you develop symptoms such as numbness or tingling of extremities or face, blurry vision, muscle twitching, or roving eye movements, go to the nearest emergency room. Young children and older people who are stung by a scorpion should be taken to the emergency room immediately.

Ways to Prepare for Scorpion Stings

• 1. Keep your tetanus shots and boosters current.
• 2. Be careful when camping or during other outdoor activities to make sure that a scorpion has not made a home in your clothes, shoes or sleeping bags.
• 3. Scorpions glow brightly under UV light (or black light).
• 4. Scorpions are basically immune to most pesticides. If you suspect your house has scorpions, call a professional exterminator.
• 5. Very few people die from scorpion stings, even the sting of the Arizona bark scorpion. Scorpion stings are most dangerous to the very young and the very old. Pets are also at risk.

Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit About.com.