What to do if you get stung by a scorpion? (Scorpion Sting) Let's find out for sure!

Imagine you're sweeping the yard or cleaning out some old stuff. Suddenly, you feel a sharp pain in your arm or leg, like a thorn. When you look, you see a scorpion crawling along the ground! It's normal to feel scared at times like this. But rather than panicking, knowing exactly what to do is the best way to protect yourself and your family. Today, we'll talk about what to do if you're stung by a scorpion.

What happens to the body when a scorpion stings? (Symptoms)

First of all, most of the scorpion species in Sri Lanka are not very poisonous . That is, most of the time the symptoms are limited to the site of the sting. However, sometimes, especially in young children, the elderly, or those with other illnesses, this can be a bit severe. Also, if you get bitten by the red scorpion called the "Henaya" or "Dehiya" (Indian Red Scorpion), the most dangerous scorpion species in Sri Lanka, the symptoms can be severe.

Let's divide the commonly seen symptoms into two parts.

Quick first aid to do at home

Don't panic if you see a scorpion, just follow these steps.

1. Calm down: First of all, don't panic. When you panic, your heart rate increases and the poison is more likely to spread throughout your body more quickly.

2. Wash the wound: Wash the puncture site thoroughly with soap and clean water. This can help prevent infection.

3. Apply something cold: Wrap a few ice cubes in a clean cloth and apply them to the affected area for about 10 minutes. Then remove them for 10 minutes and apply them again. This can help reduce pain and swelling. Never apply ice directly to the skin , as it can damage the skin.

4. Elevate the arm/leg: If the puncture site is on an arm or leg, keep that area as high as possible above the heart. It is best to keep a pillow over it.

5. Painkillers: You can take a common painkiller like Paracetamol. However, if you have another illness or if it is a child, do not give any medicine without medical advice.

6. For itching: Sometimes itching can occur. For that, you can use an antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream recommended by a doctor. However, it is safest to consult a doctor.

Never make these mistakes!

There are some misconceptions among our people. Don't mention these things.

• Cutting or scraping the wound.
• Trying to suck the poison out of the wound with your mouth.
• Wrapping the piercing tightly with a rope or belt.
• Placing various leaves, tree bark, or other objects on the wound without consulting a doctor (these can cause the wound to fester).

When should you see a doctor immediately?

There are some situations where it is not advisable to stay at home after administering first aid. In such cases, go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) without delay.

• If a scorpion stings a small child or an elderly person .
• If the person who was bitten has other medical conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure , or severe allergies .
• If you are experiencing any of the symptoms that affect the whole body that we discussed earlier (such as difficulty breathing, increased heart rate, vomiting).
• If the pain is increasing and uncontrollable.
• A red scorpion (henaya) is considered dangerous by the locals.

If you can, safely kill the scorpion, put it in a container, and take it to the hospital. This will make it easier for doctors to identify the type of scorpion and treat it. But don't do it and risk further injury.

If you have any doubts, you can also call the National Poison Information Center at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

How to protect yourself from scorpions? (Prevention)

"Prevention is better than cure," they say. Make these simple things a habit to stay safe from scorpions.

• Wear shoes: Wear shoes, especially when going out at night and when working in the garden.
• Wear gloves: Be sure to wear gloves when working in the garden, collecting firewood, rolling stones, and removing old logs.
• Check your shoes and clothes: Before putting on your shoes, shake them out thoroughly. Especially if they've been outside or in the garage. Also, shake out clothes, towels, etc. that have been hanging outside.
• Keep your home clean: Remove unnecessary items like logs, piles of rocks, and old furniture from around your home. These are the best places for scorpions to hide.
• Check the bedding: It's a good habit to thoroughly check the bedding and pillows before going to bed, especially if you live in a rural area.
• Seal cracks in your home: Seal cracks and holes in walls and foundations. Scorpions can enter your home through these areas.