Scorpions are relatively inactive during the daylight hours. The majority of envenomations reported to the Poison Center occur at night during the warm summer months. Scorpion stings can cause immediate local pain with minimal swelling. Numbness and tingling are frequently reported. The injured area may be hypertensive to touch, pressure, heat and cold.
Small children are at highest risk.
The majority of stings occurring in healthy young adults may be managed at home with basic first aid measures and follow-up. First aid should include cleaning the site with soap and water, cool compress, elevating the affected limb to approximately heart level, and aspirin or Tylenol as needed for minor discomfort. Stings occurring in children or any patient experiencing severe symptoms should be seen at a health care facility immediately.