BROWN SCORPION

Scorpions

There are many species of scorpions found in Arizona but only one is potentially lethal. This is the bark scorpion. It is one of the smaller species being one to one and a half inches long. It prefers places dark and cool, wood piles, palm trees, decorative bark. The severity of the sting depends on the amount of venom injected but scorpion stings can be fatal. Ninety percent of all scorpion stings occur on the hands.

The lethal scorpion is very slender and streamlined. It is straw-colored or nearly opaque, small, less than two inches long. Signs and symptoms of scorpion stings include:

1. Sharp pain at the site of the sting
2. Swelling that gradually spreads
3. Discoloration
4. Nausea and vomiting
5. Restlessness
6. Drooling
7. Poor coordination
8. Incontinence
9. Seizures

Treatment:

1. Apply ice to relieve the pain of the sting
2. Be sure the victim's airway stays clear
3. Transport to a hospital. A specific anti-venom is available.