Thousands of Arizonans get stung by scorpions every year
Jun 25, 2015, 8:49 PM | Updated: Jun 26, 2015, 9:26 am
PHOENIX — Every year thousands of people get stung by scorpions in Arizona.
Most people do well after being stung by a scorpion. There is usually pain, but most of the time there are no severe symptoms. Usually ice on the area is all you need along with over-the-counter medicine.
“Young children and infants can become very sick,” said Doctor Michelle Ruha with the Banner Poison and Drug Information Center. “That’s because the scorpion has a venom that causes a neurologic syndrome.”
For a severe reaction, some of the signs to look for are jerking, uncontrollable shaking, salivation, increased heart rate, and increased blood pressure.
“If you are not sure what to do, call the poison control center,” said Dr. Ruha.
A scorpion sting is not an allergic reaction and should not be treated as such. A scorpion sting is an envenomation. Medications like Benadryl are not helpful.
Anyone who is stung should call the Banner Poison and Drug Information Center at 800-222-1222.
