What To Do If A Scorpion Bites You?
Don’t think that scorpions are just in deserts, they are more common than we can imagine. We can all be exposed to a sting from this insect and we have to be prepared to know what to do and how to act if we experience this.
Steps to follow if a scorpion bites you
Scorpions often hide under rocks or under the ground, so if you’re going to mess around in your garden, or if you’re the type who likes to collect plants, flowers, or other things in the field, you could be exposed to a sting. What to do in this case?
Call the zoonoses center
Each country has a number for these cases, and it is essential that you know by heart the emergency number where you live. It is essential that you do this because, although you may feel good about going to the rescue alone, the stinger can immobilize you.
If you are alone at the time this happened, be sure to tell the center exactly where you are and they will signal you to see if you can get to the hospital. For example, they might ask you to call or say they’ll call you in a few minutes and, if there’s no response, they’ll send an ambulance.
Take a picture of the scorpion
Yes, we know that a selfie of the bug that bit you is the last thing you want, but it’s a step you should keep in mind if you run into this problem. This step is vital for identifying the type of scorpion you are and for you to receive the antidote or cure you need.
Not all scorpions are the same, they have different venoms and produce different symptoms, so a photo will be essential in order to act quickly. Remember that some species are deadly.
pay attention to symptoms
Even if you’ve managed to get to the center or see a doctor to treat you, it’s vital to keep an eye out for your symptoms at home. These may get worse or even new ones may appear. Scorpion stings may not be very common in your area and information may be lacking.
wash the bite
As soon as possible, wash the stinger with mild soap and water whenever you get the chance. This will allow you not to get infected. Never suck the wound to extract the poison.
Remember to follow your doctor’s instructions to the letter and not to go beyond the advice of an expert healthcare professional. You will receive many well-intentioned tips from laypeople, but they will not always be true, which can put your life at risk.
Keep the affected area below the heart
This will be a way to prevent the poison from entering your veins and starting to flow through your body. Try to stay still as long as you can and with the area relaxed, but always trying to keep the poison in the lower body.
Also put ice on it, which will not only make the swelling go down, but also make the poison clot a little and this will make it more difficult to spread, it’s about preventing it from affecting other areas of the body. .
Do not panic
Especially if you’re alone, anxiety and nervousness won’t help you act quickly, so it’s best to stay calm as much as possible. Keep in mind that not all scorpions are deadly. In fact, few are.
It is possible that the species existing in your country have poisons that generate mild symptoms, so nothing that medication and good treatment cannot alleviate.
While we know this is not a common situation, it’s always good to be informed and be cautious if we come across this at any time. Follow these tips if it happens and you’ll see that everything will work out.
