Most scorpion stings in the United States cause only minor signs and symptoms, such as pain and warmth at the sting site. The venom of the bark scorpion, which is native to Arizona, New Mexico and the California side of the Colorado River, is more toxic and can be life-threatening, particularly in children.
Children who have been stung by a bark scorpion might experience:
- Pain, which can be intense, numbness and tingling in the area around the sting, but little or no swelling
- Muscle twitching or thrashing
- Unusual head, neck and eye movements
- Drooling
- Sweating
- Restlessness or excitability and sometimes inconsolable crying
Adults are more likely to experience:
- Rapid breathing
- High blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Muscle twitching
- Weakness
When to see a doctor
It’s always best to be safe. If you or your child is stung, follow these guidelines:
- Get immediate medical care for any child stung by a scorpion.
- If you’ve been stung, get prompt care if you begin to experience widespread symptoms.
- If you’re concerned about a scorpion sting — even if your reaction is minor — call your local poison control center for advice.
- Seek medical attention right away if you or your child is stung while traveling in another country.
If you or your child is ever stung by an Arizona Bark Scorpion, the best thing to do first is it to immediatelycall the Poison Control Center of Phoenix. Their number is 1-800-222-1222. They will ask you questions about what the symptoms are. They are helpful because they can recommend a good course of action, especially if there is an allergic or bad reaction to the sting. They can also keep a record of the people that are getting stung. Some of the mild or “regular” symptoms of an Arizona Bark Scorpion sting are.
If your Arizona Bark Scorpion sting symptoms are mild, you can take care of it at home. Wash the area with soap and water and apply a cold compress to help alleviate the swelling. If the pain is great, you can also take a pain reliever, such as ibuprofen.
Reminder: Arizona Bark Scorpions are the most dangerous scorpions in the United States. Arizona Bark Scorpion stings symptoms can be some of the worst. Don’t underestimate the damage that one sting can do!
Remember that if you or someone else gets stung by an Arizona Bark Scorpion call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
