Centipedes are elongated, segmented arthropods known for their numerous legs and predatory nature. These venomous creatures can inflict painful stings when threatened.
What a Centipede Bite Is
Centipedes do not possess jaws for biting in the conventional sense, like mammals. Instead, they “sting” or “inject venom” using specialized appendages called forcipules. These forcipules are modified front legs, resembling pincer-like claws, located near the centipede’s head. When a centipede feels provoked, these forcipules puncture the skin and deliver venom into the wound, often leaving two distinct puncture marks that form a V-shape.
The sensation from a centipede encounter varies with the centipede’s size and venom amount. Smaller centipedes may cause pain comparable to a bee sting, described as a sharp, burning sensation. Larger species can deliver more venom, resulting in intense pain. Pain, accompanied by redness and swelling, usually begins immediately following the sting.
Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Attention
Following a centipede sting, common symptoms include localized pain, redness, and swelling at the site of contact. Individuals may also experience an itching or burning sensation, along with tenderness, tingling, or mild numbness in the affected area. These reactions usually subside within 48 hours to a few days.
More severe reactions, though uncommon, can include fever, chills, nausea, and more extensive swelling around the sting site. Swollen lymph nodes or heart palpitations can also occur. In rare cases, a person may experience a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, characterized by difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, chest discomfort, a rapid heart rate, or a sudden drop in blood pressure.
Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not improve within 48 hours. Immediate medical care is necessary if there are signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, a foul odor, or pus, or if any symptoms of a severe allergic reaction develop. Stings on children, the elderly, or individuals with compromised immune systems or known insect allergies also require medical attention.
Addressing a Centipede Bite and Prevention
For immediate care after a centipede sting, thoroughly wash the affected area with soap and water to help prevent infection. Applying a cold compress, such as an ice pack wrapped in a cloth, for 10 to 15 minutes at a time can help reduce pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and antihistamines may be used to alleviate discomfort and itching. Ensuring your tetanus vaccination is up-to-date is also a precaution.
Preventing centipede encounters often involves managing their preferred habitats and food sources. Centipedes are attracted to damp environments, so reducing moisture in and around the home is helpful. This includes fixing leaky pipes, using dehumidifiers in basements, and ensuring proper drainage around the foundation. Removing clutter, both indoors and outdoors, such as piles of leaves or firewood, eliminates potential hiding spots.
Sealing cracks, holes, and gaps in foundations, around windows, and under doors can prevent centipedes and other pests from entering your living space. Since centipedes prey on other insects, controlling general household pests like ants, spiders, and cockroaches can reduce their incentive to enter your home. Keeping beds away from walls and ensuring bedding does not touch the floor can also deter them from climbing onto sleeping areas.