Definition 
Poisoning from the sting of a stingray.

Poisonous Ingredient 

 
• stingray venom

Where Found 

 
• stingrays  
• related species

Symptoms  

 
• body as a whole       o groin pain, armpit pain       o bleeding       o sweating       o severe pain at site of sting       o swelling       o weakness       o generalized cramps       o headache  
• respiratory       o difficulty breathing  
• gastrointestinal       o nausea       o Vomiting       o diarrhea  
• heart and blood vessels       o Low Blood pressure  
• nervous system       o fainting       o paralysis

Home Treatment 
Wash the area with salt water. Remove any foreign material at the wound site. Contact an emergency room. Soak the wound in the hottest water the patient can tolerate for 30-90 minutes, if instructed to do so.

Before Calling Emergency 
Determine the following:

 
• the patient’s age, weight, and condition  
• the name of the marine animal  
• the time of the sting  
• the area of the body affected

Poison Control, or a local emergency number 
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital, and any appropriate first aid that can be administered prior to arrival.

What to expect at the emergency room 
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

 
• Wash the area.  
• Remove any foreign material possible.  
• Soak the wound.  
• Give antitetanus if necessary.  
• Give antibiotic if necessary.  
• Treat the symptoms.

Expectations (prognosis) 
Recovery usually takes about 24-48 hours. Death has occurred when the patient’s chest or abdomen was punctured.

Medical Encyclopedia

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.