STING FROM SCORPIONS

Scorpions belongs to the phylum Arthropoda and the class Arachnida.They are widely distributed in various regions of the world with different species.They feed on insects and by injecting venom from the tip of their tails, they paralyze small reptiles. Most species of scorpions give painful but otherwise harmless stings, however, some are potentially lethal. Scorpions are mainly nocturnal animals,they hide during the day in crevices, decaying wood, humid under stones, shoes and clothing in homes etc. Scorpion stings are most serious in young children and older adults. Clinical features -Signs of inflammation such as pain,redness,swelling,tender etc. -Numbness or tingling sensation at the site Others (more serious) symptoms include: -Restlessness and fatigue. -Blurred vision -Excessive tearing -Slurred speech -Nausea/vomiting -paresthesia Complications: -Hypertension -Pressure sore -Hyperthermia -Abnormal beating of the heart. Treatment: -Clean the affected area with methylated spirit. -Cryotherapy on the affected side. -Use of analgesics such acetaminophen,ibuprofen etc. -Application of pressure by splashing water over the area forcefully -Use of injection such anti-venom. Precautions: -Keep the environment clean and cut all bushes around. -Wood and rocks near the home should be removed. -Shoes should be worn always. -Clothing and shoes around the compound should be taken care of before taking it into the house.