Scorpion

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Scorpion

Scorpions, found mostly in the western and especially the southwestern United States, are up to in length. They have eight legs and a pair of crablike pincers. 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.

See a picture of a scorpion .

Although some scorpions are not poisonous, others have venom strong enough to kill a person. Some scorpions are found in cool, damp places, such as basements, junk piles, and wood piles. Other scorpions are found in desert areas. Symptoms of a scorpion sting may include:

Intense immediate pain lasting from minutes to 24 hours.
Swelling, itching, and a change in skin color.
Nausea and vomiting.
Anxiety, drowsiness, and fainting.
Increased saliva, tears, and sweat.
Numbness of the tongue.
Vision problems.
Diarrhea or inability to control bowels.
Swollen glands.

If you have been stung by a scorpion, contact a health professional immediately. Medicine (antivenom) may be needed to counteract the effects of the scorpion sting.

Credits

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Author	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Sean P. Bush, MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine and Envenomation Specialist
Last Updated	February 1, 2008

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Last updated:	February 01, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Sean P. Bush, MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine and Envenomation Specialist
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

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