What happens when you encounter the tiny yet feared Arizona bark scorpion? The sting from this deceptively small creature can pack a punch. It’s the only scorpion in the United States with venom potent enough to cause severe symptoms in humans.
Keep reading and learn how to respond and make a difference in a scorpion sting emergency.
Key Takeaways
- The Arizona Bark Scorpion sting can cause pain, numbness, and muscle twitching that may last up to 72 hours.
- Children, older adults, or those with severe reactions might need immediate medical attention.
- A cool compress and over-the-counter pain relievers can help but avoid aspirin or ibuprofen.
- Sealing entry points, removing debris, and calling pest control can help prevent scorpion stings.
What Happens When an Arizona Bark Scorpion Stings You?
An Arizona Bark Scorpion sting can be a challenging experience, as its venom can lead to various symptoms. These symptoms occur in different stages, initially displaying signs soon after the sting, followed by more effects in the days that follow.
While the pincers of the scorpion may cause a slight pinching sensation, the main danger comes from the venom delivered by the stinger.
| Timing | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| First few hours | Intense, burning pain |
| Numbness, pins-and-needles | |
| Spasms, difficulty controlling eye movement | |
| Next 24-72 hours | Muscle weakness |
| Nausea, sweating, difficulty breathing |
How Long Will Symptoms Last?
As residents of the Southwest, encountering an Arizona bark scorpion might leave you anxious about the aftereffects. When stung by this type of scorpion, most symptoms begin to improve within 24 to 72 hours.
For many people, the initial intense pain and numbness start to subside gradually, like how a bee sting fades over time.
Some individuals experience lingering effects like mild swelling or numbness for up to a week. In some cases, severe reactions may require immediate medical attention.
Treatments like antivenom can reduce envenomation symptoms duration and severity, especially when administered within the first few hours after a sting. However, some may still feel discomfort long after treatment.
What to Do When Stung by an Arizona Bark Scorpion
Encountering this venomous scorpion can be an unsettling experience. Here’s what can be done if someone in your household gets stung by this arthropod:
- Clean the sting area gently with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.
- Apply a cool compress to the sting site to ease swelling and discomfort.
- Consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen.
- Avoid using aspirin or ibuprofen, as they may worsen bruising or bleeding.
- Contact a poison control center to get expert advice.
- Watch for serious symptoms that may need immediate medical care.
Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or a child or older adult is affected. Such cases may require emergency medicine or specific treatments. Also, don’t take antihistamines, as they aren’t typically recommended for their stings.
How to Keep Arizona Bark Scorpions Away
Arizona bark scorpions are prevalent in North America, with populations in parts of Texas, New Mexico, Nevada, and California. If you’re a homeowner near the Sonoran Desert in Phoenix, consider these steps for scorpion control:
- Check for entry points around doors and windows.
- Use weatherstripping or caulk to close any gaps.
- Clear firewood piles, rocks, and other debris that attract scorpions.
- Keep shrubs and trees trimmed to repel other pests like tarantulas.
- Avoid letting branches touch the house.
- Always wear shoes and gloves when gardening.
- Shake out clothing and bedding before use if you’ve been outside.
- Use a UV light or a black light to check in areas where they may hide.
- Hire a pest control service to handle your scorpion problems.
Should You Call Pest Control for Your Scorpion Problem?
Dealing with scorpions can be unnerving. Arizona Bark Scorpions, in particular, are known for their painful sting. Seeing one or two might not be alarming, but spotting several could mean a call to pest control.
At Green Home Pest Control, our scorpion exterminators specialize in safe pest management for infestations. If you see signs of pests in your Glendale or Tempe home, we’re here to help.
For more information, schedule a free consultation today.
21 years of pest control experience
Founder and Owner of Green Home Pest Control
13 year resident of Arizona
