Scorpion Sting: First Aid, Symptoms, Treatment & Types

A scorpion sting usually causes intense pain at the site, along with redness and swelling. In some cases, it can be more serious and trigger widespread symptoms such as dizziness, vomiting, headache, muscle spasms, or low blood pressure.

Scorpion venom is a toxin that affects the nervous system. The severity of a scorpion sting depends on the amount of venom injected and the person’s immune response. Without prompt medical care, it can become very dangerous.

If stung by a scorpion, immediate medical attention is essential. While waiting for help, keep the affected area elevated, apply a cold compress, and drink plenty of water.

First aid at home

The following steps are recommended after a scorpion sting:

• Wash the sting site with soap and water

• Apply cold compresses to slow venom absorption

• Keep the affected area elevated

• Do not cut, puncture, squeeze, or press the site

• Drink plenty of water

• Take a photo of the scorpion or capture it safely if possible, to help the doctor identify the species

• Go to the hospital immediately or call emergency services

Severity depends on the type of scorpion, the amount of venom, and the person’s health. Regardless, all scorpion stings should be evaluated in a hospital.

Common symptoms

The most common symptoms of a scorpion sting include:

• Intense pain and swelling at the site

• Redness, heat, and inflammation lasting from a few hours to 2 days

• Nausea and vomiting

• Dizziness or headache

• Tremors and muscle spasms

• Sweating or paleness

• Drowsiness or agitation

• Low or high blood pressure

• Rapid or weak heartbeat

• Shortness of breath

In rare and severe cases, a scorpion sting can cause arrhythmias, seizures, a sudden drop in blood pressure, kidney or heart failure, or fluid in the lungs. These complications can be life-threatening without urgent treatment.

Treatment options

Cold compresses can help relieve pain and swelling. A doctor may also prescribe FDA-approved pain relievers or anti-inflammatories such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

If symptoms are more severe, doctors may use antivenom to neutralize the toxin. Intravenous fluids and monitoring in the hospital are also often required until symptoms improve.

Identifying the type of scorpion

Identifying the species of scorpion can help guide treatment. Whenever possible, take a photo or safely capture the scorpion for evaluation in the hospital. Some species commonly found in Brazil include:

• Yellow scorpion: Light yellow with darker spots on the back and tail, up to 7 cm long. Considered the most dangerous, its sting can cause pain, numbness, nausea, vomiting, sweating, and arrhythmias, especially in children and older adults.

• Brown scorpion: Dark brown or reddish-brown with yellow, spotted legs, about 7 cm long. Often found in humid areas. Its sting causes severe pain, numbness, nausea, and malaise.

• Northeastern scorpion: Yellowish body with a darker line down the back and a small dark triangle on the head. Usually causes mild cases, with pain and numbness at the sting site.

• Amazonian black scorpion: Almost black in color, up to 8.5 cm long. Its sting causes very intense pain, burning, and swelling, and may also trigger serious effects such as arrhythmias, dizziness, shortness of breath, and drowsiness.

How to prevent 

To reduce the risk of a scorpion sting, the following precautions are recommended:

• Keep the house clean, removing clutter behind furniture, curtains, and rugs

• Clean yards and gardens regularly to avoid trash and debris buildup

• Avoid walking barefoot or placing hands in holes or cracks

• Inspect clothing and shoes before use

• Keep beds away from walls

• Remove weeds from yards

• Seal drains and use protective screens on vents in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry areas

• Repair cracks in walls, floors, or ceilings

• Avoid storing firewood, bricks, or debris near the home

Good hygiene is important, since scorpions are often attracted to places with pests such as cockroaches and rodents.

Capturing or eliminating scorpions

Scorpions are difficult to eliminate because they resist many poisons. They can close their breathing openings and remain inactive for long periods, avoiding exposure to chemicals. The safest option is to call local authorities so the scorpion can be removed properly.

How to capture a scorpion at home

If capture is unavoidable, safety measures should be followed:

• Wear long-sleeved clothing and pants

• Use thick rubber boots

• Wear heavy protective gloves

• Use a hat

• Handle the scorpion with long tweezers (at least 8 inches)

• Hold it by the tail and place it in a plastic container

• Seal the container with a screw-top lid with small holes

Whenever possible, capture should be done by trained professionals to avoid accidents. Scorpions should be handed over alive to authorities, both to prevent further incidents and to support antivenom production.