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Scorpion Bite Cures

Although scorpions are feared by children and adults alike, bites from scorpions are mostly harmless and rarely serious. Found mainly in the southern and southwestern United States, the scorpion's bite often causes only pain and swelling at the sting site. In severe cases, venom from the potentially lethal bark scorpion, native to New Mexico, Arizona and the California side of the Colorado River, may cause serious and life-threatening symptoms in children and older adults. If your child suffers a scorpion bite, seek immediate medical help.

  1. Symptoms

    • In mild cases, symptoms of a scorpion bite include swelling, redness burning, tingling or warmth at the sting site. Adults stung by a bark scorpion may experience high blood pressure; muscle twitching; weakness; rapid breathing; difficulty breathing; double vision; convulsions; seizures; paralysis; abnormal eye, neck and head movements; or an increased heart rate. In children, symptoms of a bark scorpion bite may include muscle twitching; sweating; drooling; restlessness; inconsolable crying; and abnormal head, neck and eye movements.

    Cold Compress

    • Wash the bite site with warm water and soap. Apply ice, wrapped in a cloth or a cold compress, to the area for 10 minutes. This will help alleviate pain, reduce swelling and slow the spread of venom. After 10 minutes, remove the ice or cold compress and keep it off the area for 10 minutes before reapplying it to the site. If you or your child has a circulatory problem, keep the ice or cold compress on the skin for a shorter time period. Be sure to apply the cold compress within the first two hours after a sting.

    Pain Relievers and Creams

    • Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help alleviate the pain associated with a scorpion bite. Avoid sedatives and narcotic pain medications, which may depress breathing. A cream or ointment containing an anesthetic, antihistamine or corticosteroid may also help to reduce swelling and pain.

    Hospitalization and Antivenin

    • In severe cases, hospitalization or antivenin is necessary to treat a scorpion bite. While in a hospital, a doctor may prescribe sedatives to stop muscle spasms or provide fluids intravenously to manage high blood pressure and pain. Additionally, doctors may administer antivenin, a medication that counteracts and fights the scorpion's venom. According to the Mayo Clinic, an existing antivenin containing animal protein often used to treat patients with a scorpion bite has been shown to cause a potentially serious medical reaction. While no longer available, scientists are testing an alternative antivenin that is showing promising results within four hours of a patient receiving the medication.

    Prevention

    • Avoid dark, damp places where scorpions may hide such as rock piles or woodpiles. Seal cracks around doors and windows and vacuum frequently, concentrating on corners and ceilings where spider webs may appear. Wear shoes outdoors. When camping or hiking, wear long-sleeve clothing. In areas where scorpions are common, shake out clothing or shoes before putting them on.

    Warning

    • Some people may develop a serious allergic reaction to a scorpion bite. If you experience hives, trouble breathing, vomiting or nausea, contact your doctor immediately. If your child shows signs of a scorpion bite, seek immediate medical attention.

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