Scorpion venom
Scorpion venom, as the name suggests, is poison from the sting of a scorpion.
About scorpions[edit | edit source]
- Scorpions are predatory insects (arachnids) of the order Scorpiones.
- They have eight legs and nocturnal for the most part as they hide during the day and are active at night.
Habitat[edit | edit source]
- They may be hiding under rocks, wood, or anything else lying on the ground.
- Some species may also burrow into the ground. Most scorpions live in dry, desert areas.
- Some species can be found in grasslands, forests, and inside caves.
U.S. Geographic Region[edit | edit source]
Southern and Southwestern United States.
Worldwide distribution[edit | edit source]
Scorpions are found in subtropical areas and less frequently colder climates.
Sting of scorpions[edit | edit source]
- The scorpion venom is found in scorpions and related species.
- More than 40 species of scorpions are found in the United States.
- The class of insects to which scorpions belong contains the largest number of venomous species known.
- Scorpion stings kill more people around the world than any other animal, except snakes
- Most varieties of North American scorpions are NOT venomous.
- The venomous ones in the United States live mainly in the southwestern deserts.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
In mild cases, the only symptom may be a mild with just burning at the site of the sting.
In severe cases, symptoms may include:
EYES AND EARS[edit | edit source]
- Double vision
LUNGS[edit | edit source]
- Difficulty breathing
- No breathing
- Rapid breathing
NOSE, MOUTH, AND THROAT[edit | edit source]
Most stings from North American scorpions do not need treatment. Children 6 years and younger are more likely to have harmful effects from venomous types of scorpions.
- Clean the area thoroughly with soap and water.
- Place ice (wrapped in a clean cloth) on the site of the sting for 10 minutes and then off for 10 minutes. Repeat this process.
- If the person has problems with blood circulation, decrease the time that the ice is on the area to prevent possible skin damage.
- Keep the affected area still, if possible, to prevent the venom from spreading.
- Loosen clothing and remove rings and other tight jewelry.
- Give the person diphenhydramine (Benadryl and other brands) by mouth if they can swallow.
Investigations[edit | edit source]
A thorough history is critical for proper diagnosis. In addition, the following tests maybe done:
- Blood and urine tests
- Breathing support, including oxygen, tube through the mouth into the throat, and breathing machine (ventilator)
- Chest x-ray
- ECG
- Fluids through a vein
- Medications to help reverse the effect of the venom
- Symptomatic and supportive care
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
- Death from scorpion stings rarely occurs in people older than 6 years.
- If symptoms rapidly become worse within the first 2 to 4 hours after the sting, a poor outcome is more likely.
- Symptoms may last several days or longer. Some deaths have occurred as late as weeks after the sting if complications develop.
- Scorpions are nocturnal predatory animals that usually spend the day under rocks, logs, or floors and in crevices.
- DO NOT put your hands or feet in these hiding places.
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