Symptoms

Signs and symptoms at the site of a scorpion sting may include:

• Pain, which can be intense
• Numbness and tingling
• Slight swelling
• Warmth

Signs and symptoms related to widespread (systemic) venom effects usually occur in children who are stung and may include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Muscle twitching or thrashing
• Unusual head, neck and eye movements
• Drooling
• Sweating
• Nausea and vomiting
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Accelerated heart rate (tachycardia)
• Restlessness or excitability, or inconsolable crying in children

As with other stinging insects, such as bees and wasps, it is possible for people who have previously been stung by scorpions to have allergic reactions with subsequent stings. Reactions to these subsequent stings are sometimes severe enough to cause a life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis. Signs and symptoms in these cases are similar to those of anaphylaxis caused by bee stings and can include hives, trouble breathing, and nausea and vomiting.

When to see a doctor

Get immediate medical care for a child stung by a scorpion.

Call your local poison control center for advice if you're concerned about a scorpion sting. To reach a poison control center in the United States, call Poison Help at 800-222-1222.

Seek prompt medical care if you've been stung by a scorpion and begin to experience severe symptoms.