How To Treat a Scorpion Sting

If you want to be able to recognize scorpions when you come across them, here are pictures of some of the most common Arizona species.

Here's How:

1. Recognize scorpion sting symptoms: immediate pain or burning, very little swelling, sensitivity to touch, and a numbness/tingling sensation.
2. The Arizona Bark Scorpion is venomous. The Arizona Bark Scorpion sting may have additional symptoms such as numbness or tingling of extremities or face, blurry vision, or muscle twitching.
3. When stung by an Arizona Bark Scorpion, children may start to exhibit hyperactivity and have roving eye movements.
4. If you are victim of a scorpion sting, wash the area with soap and water.
5. 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.
6. Call the Poison Control Center at (800) 362-0101 or (602) 253-3334. If you develop symptoms of an Arizona Bark Scorpion sting, go to the nearest emergency room.
7. Keep your tetanus shots and boosters current.

Tips:

1. 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.
2. Scorpions glow brightly under UV light (black light).
3. Scorpions are basically immune to most pesticides. If you suspect your house has scorpions, call a professional exterminator.
4. 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.