Scorpion venom

Scorpion venom, as the name suggests, is poison from the sting of a scorpion.

Black Hairy Scorpion

About scorpions

• 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

• 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

Southern and Southwestern United States.

Worldwide distribution

Scorpions are found in subtropical areas and less frequently colder climates.

Scorpion distribution

Sting of scorpions

• 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

In mild cases, the only symptom may be a mild with just burning at the site of the sting.

Dancing scorpions

In severe cases, symptoms may include:

EYES AND EARS

• Double vision

LUNGS

• Difficulty breathing
• No breathing
• Rapid breathing

NOSE, MOUTH, AND THROAT

• Drooling
• Itching of the nose and throat
• Spasm of the larynx
• Tongue that feels thick

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Scorpion anatomy

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.

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Scorpion sting

Investigations

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

• 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.