Symptoms of a Scorpion Sting in an Infant

Scorpions look like small, straw-colored lobsters characterized by an upward curving tail over the back. According to the BabyCenter medical advisory board, there are 30 to 40 species of scorpions in the United States, with most species located in the Southwest. Most scorpions are not poisonous, but one type can be potentially lethal. All types of scorpions can be potentially dangerous to infants. If you are certain or think your infant was stung by a scorpion it is imperative to get him to the hospital as soon as possible to prevent severe complications. If you are uncertain if a scorpion stung your infant, look for certain signs common to scorpion bites in infants.

Tingling and Burning

• Infants stung by a scorpion may only experience mild symptoms that are evident at the bite area. Tingling and burning at the site of the scorpion sting are the most common symptoms in infants.

Swelling and Color Changes

• The sight of a scorpion bite in infants may swell significantly. According the BabyCenter medical advisory board, the bite may also change in color from light pink to dark red.

Mouth and Throat Issues

• Infants who have been stung by a scorpion may be affected at the throat and mouth. Pediatrician Dr. Alan Greene states that infants may drool or have a thick-feeling tongue after a scorpion bite. Infants may also experience spasms in the larynx or voice box as a result of a scorpion bite.

Behavior Changes

• Your infant may experience behavioral changes due to a scorpion sting. After a scorpion bite, infants may begin to grimace, thrash and jerk or flail arms and legs. Infants may also cry inconsolably despite efforts to soothe pain.

Breathing Changes

• After a scorpion bite, your infant may experience difficulty breathing. Infants may also experience rapid breathing symptoms or in severe cases, are unable to breathe in reaction to a scorpion bite.

Stomach Issues

• According to Dr. Greene, infants may experience stomach and intestinal tract difficulties after being stung by a scorpion. Infants may experience severe abdominal cramping and fecal incontinence, which results from the inability to pass stools.

Nervous System Changes

• Scorpion bites can trigger serious nervous system problems that should be immediately addressed by a physician. Nervous system complications in infants as a result of a scorpion bite include random head, neck or eye movement; paralysis; seizures; stiffness; restlessness; and convulsions.

Heart & Blood Issues

• Infants may experience high blood pressure due to scorpion stings. Infants may also have a decrease or increase in heart rate and/or an irregular heart beat after being bitten by a scorpion.

Kidneys & Bladder Issues

• Infants who are stung by a scorpion may experience and show signs of urinary incontinence. Urine output may also decrease significantly after the bite.