Toxic effect of venom of centipedes and venomous millipedes, accidental (unintentional) digital illustration

Toxic effect of venom of centipedes and venomous millipedes, accidental (unintentional) Save


ICD-10 code: T63.411

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Toxic Effect of Venom of Centipedes and Venomous Millipedes, Accidental (Unintentional)

Centipedes and millipedes are commonly found in different parts of the world. They are mostly harmless, but some species are venomous and can cause severe reactions in humans. Accidental or unintentional exposure to the venom of centipedes and venomous millipedes can have toxic effects on the body.

Centipedes are elongated, flattened arthropods with a pair of legs on each body segment. They have sharp, pointed claws called forcipules that they use to inject venom into their prey or attackers. The venom of centipedes contains various toxins that can cause pain, swelling, and inflammation in humans. Some of the symptoms of centipede venom poisoning include:

  1. Severe pain and burning sensation at the site of the bite
  2. Swelling and redness at the bite site
  3. Nausea and vomiting
  4. Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  5. Muscle cramps and spasms
  6. Increased heart rate and blood pressure

Venomous millipedes, on the other hand, are not as common as centipedes. They are mostly found in tropical regions and have a cylindrical body with numerous legs. The venom of millipedes contains various chemicals, including hydrogen cyanide, which can cause toxic effects in humans. Some of the symptoms of millipede venom poisoning include:

  1. Burning sensation at the site of contact
  2. Redness, swelling, and blistering at the site of contact
  3. Nausea and vomiting
  4. Headache and dizziness
  5. Difficulty breathing
  6. Convulsions and seizures (in severe cases)

In conclusion, accidental or unintentional exposure to the venom of centipedes and venomous millipedes can have toxic effects on the body. If you are bitten or come into contact with a centipede or millipede, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. You can also take some measures to prevent exposure to these venomous creatures, such as wearing protective clothing and shoes when working in areas where they are common.