Can You Be Allergic to Scorpions?

Scorpion venom can trigger a serious reaction, but not an allergic reaction.

Scorpions are a part of life in our region. While a serious reaction is a possibility with any stinging pest, we need not jump to the conclusion that a scorpion sting will be life-threatening. However, if you have small children or are an older adult, precautions should be taken to avoid scorpion stings. 

What is a typical reaction to a scorpion sting?

Bark scorpions, the most dangerous and most prevalent in our region, can produce serious reactions. Typical reactions to scorpion stings can include intense pain at the bite site, as well as numbness, swelling, and warmth.

This type of reaction can be treated with topical or oral antihistamine, ibuprofen for pain, and ice to decrease the warm feeling around the bite site. If you are unsure how to treat your symptoms, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

What are some serious symptoms of scorpion stings?

Serious reactions to scorpion stings can include symptoms that flow throughout the body, not remaining at only the bite site. A sever scorpion sting response can include symptoms, such as twitching muscles, slurred speech, sweating, nausea, fast heart rate, drooling, and trouble breathing.

Serious scorpion sting reactions require emergent medical attention. Because being envenomed by a scorpion does not cause an allergic reaction, major symptoms should not be treated with EpiPen, Benadryl, or any type of antihistamine or epinephrin. These treatment methods could intensify symptoms to dangerous levels.

If I am allergic to bee stings, will I have a severe reaction to scorpions?

While a sting from a scorpion can feel like a bad bee sting, and typical reactions are similar, it is not a foregone conclusion that you will have a strong reaction to scorpions just because you are allergic to bees. This is because venom in stinging pests is all comprised of different types of toxins. Scorpion venom is made up of concentrations of toxins, including neurotoxins, nephrotoxins, and cardiotoxins.

Search Scorpion Control El Paso and Call Mosquito Squad

Mosquito Squad of El Paso is ready to serve you with our effective pest control services, including scorpion control. We also treat fire ants, no-see-ums, mosquitoes, and other outdoor pests. Find out more about our pest control in El Paso - get in touch with Mosquito Squad of El Paso by filling out our form online  or calling us at (915) 800-0343 for a free quote.

Also read: Am I allergic to mosquitoes?