Description
Scorpions are found across the southern United States and in many foreign countries. Symptoms depend on the type of scorpion involved. The stings are rarely fatal but those at greatest risk are the very young and very old.
Symptoms
Pain at the sting site, tingling, burning sensation, redness, swelling, numbness, difficulty swallowing, a thick tongue, blurred vision, roving eye movements, seizures, salivation, difficulty breathing, death.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. If significant symptoms occur, blood tests may be performed to check for complications such as pancreatitis.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Urinalysis (UA)
Specialists:
Medical Toxicology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. If significant symptoms occur, blood tests may be performed to check for complications such as pancreatitis.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Urinalysis (UA)
Specialists:
Medical Toxicology
Treatment
Since these stings can be serious treatment includes observation in the hospital to watch for worsening symptoms.