Scorpion Sting

Scorpions don't bite, but scorpions sometimes sting. Unfortunately we have many types of scorpions in Arizona. If you remain calm, it is not difficult to treat a scorpion sting. 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.

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.

Often people tell men that they didn't know they were stung by a scorpion. It is important to recognize scorpion sting symptoms: immediate pain or burning, very little swelling, sensitivity to touch, and a numbness/tingling sensation.

If you are stung by any scorpion, including the venomous Arizona Bark Scorpion, here 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 a limb (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, or muscle twitching, 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.
5. Keep your tetanus shots and boosters current.

Scorpion Sting 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. Eliminating their food source (other insects) can help.
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.

_{Information about scorpion stings was obtained from the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center at the University of Arizona in Tucson.}