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Symptoms from Centipede Bite

Centipedes are elongated arthropods with multi-segmented bodies. Each of these segments bears a single pair of legs. Their population is distributed widely and centipedes thrive in both temperate and tropical regions. The species belonging to Genus Scolopendra are considered to be the most dangerous: the largest of these, the Scolopendra gigantean, may reach lengths of 26 centimeters.

Victims from centipede bites are often gardeners. For most individuals, a centipede bite is harmless, resulting in a painful sting and symptoms that pass after a few hours. Mild as a bee sting at the least, the pain is worse with larger specimens. Small puncture wounds may be discernible at the area of the bite. Local tissue swelling in the area of the bite may exhibit ruddiness or erythema. More severe symptoms include headache, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, anxiety and lymphangitis, a painful swelling of the lymph nodes.

Bite victims should wash the site with soap and water. A cold compress should then be applied at intervals of 10 minutes. For those with circulatory problems, these intervals may be decreased in order to prevent damage to the skin. Those with other insect allergies should monitor themselves closely following a centipede bite and may need to contact emergency medical services in the event of more severe symptoms.

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