What is a scorpion?

Scorpions, found mostly across the southern and western United States, are up to 3 in. (7.6 cm) in length. They have eight legs and a pair of pincers like a crab has. The stinger, which injects venom, is located at the end of a narrow tail that curves around and over the back of the scorpion's body. Most scorpions inject little or no venom with their sting. But some have venom strong enough to cause serious symptoms that need medical help right away.

Some scorpions are found in cool, damp places, such as basements, junk piles, and wood piles. Other scorpions are found in desert areas.

What are the symptoms of a scorpion sting?

Symptoms of a scorpion sting may include:

• Stinging or burning pain at the site of the sting.
• Numbness and tingling.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Increased saliva, tears, and sweat.
• Vision problems.
• Anxiety and restlessness.
• Trouble breathing.

How is a scorpion sting treated?

If you have been stung by a scorpion, it's important to get medical help right away. Treatment will depend on how severe your symptoms are, when they began, and how they have changed since you were stung. There is antivenom medicine to treat severe symptoms.

Home treatment

• Don't scratch or rub the skin around the area.
• Put ice or a cold pack on the area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time for several hours.Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
• Try an over-the-counter medicine for itching, redness, swelling, and pain. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Take an over-the-counter antihistamine to help calm the itching or swelling.
• Put a hydrocortisone 1% cream or calamine lotion on the skin.