When to seek emergency help

Call 911 or your local medical emergency number if a child is stung by a scorpion or if anyone is having a serious reaction that suggests anaphylaxis, even if it's just one or two of the following symptoms:

• Trouble breathing.
• Swelling of the lips, face, eyelids or throat.
• Dizziness, fainting or unconsciousness.
• A weak and rapid pulse.
• Hives.
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

Take these actions immediately while waiting for medical help:

• Ask whether the injured person is carrying an epinephrine autoinjector (Auvi-Q, others). Ask whether you should help inject the medicine. This is usually done by pressing the autoinjector against the thigh and holding it in place for several seconds.
• Loosen tight clothing and cover the person with a blanket.
• Don't offer anything to drink.
• If needed, position the person to prevent choking on vomit