Bee Sting vs. Scorpion Sting: Which Is Worse?
If you’ve been stung by a bee before, you know how intense that sudden jolt of pain can be. But in the desert Southwest, where scorpions are common, a lot of folks wonder: Is a scorpion sting worse than a bee sting? The short answer? Usually, yes—and sometimes by a lot.
Let’s break down the differences, especially if you live in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, or California where both pests can show up in your yard or even your home.
1. Pain Level
Bee Sting
- Sharp, instant pain
- Usually fades within an hour or two
- May leave a red bump or welt
Scorpion Sting
- Pain starts instantly but often builds and spreads
- Can feel like burning, tingling, or even electric shocks
- May last several hours or more
The bark scorpion—the most venomous species in the U.S.—can deliver a sting that some people describe as “worse than childbirth” or “like plugging into a live wire.”
2. Health Risks
Bee Stings Can Be Deadly—But Usually Aren’t
The biggest risk from a bee sting is anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction. Most people are fine with a single sting unless they’re allergic. But multiple stings—like from a swarm—can be dangerous for anyone.
Scorpion Stings Affect the Nervous System
The bark scorpion’s venom is neurotoxic, meaning it interferes with your nerves. In healthy adults, this usually causes localized pain and tingling. But in:
- Children
- Older adults
- People with pre-existing conditions
…it can cause serious symptoms like:
- Uncontrollable shaking
- Trouble breathing
- Muscle spasms
- Slurred speech or vomiting
In extreme cases, it can be life-threatening—especially for kids under 10.
3. Treatment Differences
For Bee Stings
- Remove the stinger
- Wash the area and apply ice
- Take antihistamines or pain relievers
- Use an EpiPen if allergic
For Scorpion Stings
- Wash with soap and water
- Apply ice or a cool compress
- Go to the ER if symptoms are serious
- Antivenom is available for bark scorpion stings
If you live in Tucson or Phoenix, many ERs are stocked with Anascorp, the only FDA-approved scorpion antivenom.
4. Where You’re Likely to Get Stung
Bee Stings
- Outdoors during the day
- Common in gardens, near trash cans, or soda cans
Scorpion Stings
- Indoors at night
- Common in:
- Shoes or laundry
- Bathrooms
- Baseboards or under furniture
This makes scorpion stings more of a surprise—and often more frightening—because they happen where you’re supposed to feel safe.
So… Are Scorpion Stings Worse?
In terms of pain and unpredictability, yes—scorpion stings are generally worse than bee stings. Bee stings are more common, especially outdoors, but they rarely cause severe pain unless you’re allergic. Scorpion stings, especially from bark scorpions, can send you to the ER even if you’ve never had a bad reaction to anything before.
What You Can Do
If you’re living in the Southwest, consider using a plug-in Scorpion Detector. These devices scan your floors with UV light and a smart camera when it’s dark. If a scorpion is spotted, you get an alert on your phone—before your foot finds it first.
