Painkillers can treat mild scorpion bites: Doc

Solan, August 20

Scorpion bite cases are common in India, especially in Himachal Pradesh. Although harmless, some patients do develop serious systemic complications such as myocardial infarction, pulmonary edema and myocarditis.

Recently, an awareness campaign was organised by the students of Sai Sanjeevani Hospital, Solan, to create awareness on the importance of being careful during the rainy season as scorpion bites are on the rise.

Scorpion envenomation is an important public health hazard as out of 1,500 species, 50 are dangerous to humans. Among 86 species in India, Mesobuthus tumulus — the Indian scorpion is of medical importance said Dr Sanjay Aggarwal, a surgeon from Solan.

“Simple allergic reactions comprising compromise of cardiac, respiratory and central nervous system functions are reported in some cases. Cardiovascular and neurological complications of which cranial haemorrhages and alteration in neurological functions are also common,” he informed.

“Daily several incidents of scorpion bite cases are coming to fore, though many go unnoticed and local doctors in the villages treat such cases at their own level,” said Dr Aggarwal.

Mild allergic reactions and intense pain can be treated with local application and simple painkillers.

A neurogenic reaction that is a fearful response to the bite in the patient might lead to reactionary fall in their blood pressure. Although innocent, scorpions are rated as lethal.