Scorpion sting
Some people consider a scorpion to be a bug. But in actual truth this menacing creature is closer to the spider than the bug. The Scorpion is classified as an Arachnid. The same class is shared by other animals including ticks, Carmel spider as well as the scorpion.
Physical appearance
There are more than 1500 known species of Scorpions all over the world. Although they may differ in color and size, they tend to have the same physical attributes all across.
They all generally possess a menacing look and that is perhaps why a bite from a scorpion is so much feared. The body of a scorpion is divided into two. The front part also known as the cephalothorax, makes up the head as well half the body. The chelae is the scientific name given to the two menacing pincers at the front of the scorpions head. The function of this is to manipulate and handle food.
The abdomen is represented by the lower half of the scorpion’s body and is the part that carries the stinger. Scorpions have elongated bodies and segmented tails that are tipped with a sharp, venomous stinger. The stinger is a thorn like organ specifically designed for both offensive and defensive uses. The stinger is equipped with a gland ready to inflict a venomous wound from a single sting. Did you know? The Scorpion has the ability to sting more than once. But to sting repeatedly the scorpion must have some time to replenish its venom.
The venom in this stinger is potent enough to incapacitate prey. In some scorpions, this venom is poisonous enough to cause fatalities in humans.
What does a scorpion bite feel like?
The venom of a scorpion is known to contain as many as 50 toxins. While the sting of a scorpion is painful, of all the 1500 known species, only the sting of about 50 of them can cause fatalities to kids or adults.
To humans a scorpion bite feels like being stung by a wasp. The pain and swelling is very much like of a wasp sting. Unless you are allergic to a scorpion’s venom, normal first aid is enough for you to get on with your life in no time. However, those who are allergic to a scorpion’s venom, immediate medical attention is imperative for adults or children as the allergic reaction can quickly turn fatal. At the hospital, such allergic cases are often treated using an anti-venom.
How treat a scorpion bite
Incase an adult or child gets bitten by a scorpion, here’s what to do before you get to the doctor.
- Clean the stung area with mild soap and clean water
- Application of a cool compress to the affected area will help reduce pain and swelling
- One can experience difficulty swallowing after a scorpion sting. If that’s the case, don’t take any food or liquids
- Taking an oral pain reliever as needed can be of help in easing the pain. A pain relieve such as ibuprofen or Children’s Motrin among other may help lessen the discomfort
Conclusion
It is hard to imagine that some people actually keep scorpions as pets. Some varieties are totally harmless such as the Emperor scorpion which has a menacing look but is quite harmless and a good place to start for pet enthusiasts. In case of a bite by a scorpion, be sure to see a doctor just to make sure that all is well.
