Spider Bites

Which spider bites are dangerous?

Most spiders found in the United States are harmless, with the exception of the black widow and the brown recluse spiders. Both of these spiders are found in warm climates.

What is a brown recluse spider?

The brown recluse spider, or violin spider, is about 1 inch long and has a violin shaped mark on its upper back. It is often found in warm, dry climates and prefers to stay in undisturbed areas such as basements, closets, and attics. It is not an aggressive spider, but will attack if trapped or held against the skin. No deaths have been reported in the U.S. from a brown recluse bite.

What are the symptoms of a brown recluse spider bite?

Venom from the brown recluse spider usually causes local tissue damage. The following are the most common symptoms of a bite from a brown recluse spider. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

Burning, pain, itching, or redness at the site which is usually delayed and may develop within several hours or days of the bite
A deep blue or purple area around the bite, surrounded by a whitish ring and large red outer ring similar to a "bulls eye"
An ulcer or blister that turns black
Headache, body aches
Rash
Fever
Nausea or vomiting

The symptoms of a brown recluse spider bite may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis.

What is the treatment for a brown recluse spider bite?

Specific treatment for a brown recluse spider bite will be determined by your doctor. Treatment may include:

Washing the area well with soap and water.
Applying a cold or ice pack wrapped in a cloth, or a cold, wet washcloth to the site.
Protecting against infection, particularly in children, by applying an antibiotic lotion or cream.
Giving acetaminophen for pain.
Elevating the site if the bite occurred on an arm or leg (to help prevent swelling).
Seeking immediate emergency care for further treatment. Depending on the severity of the bite, treatment can range from administering corticosteroids and other medications to surgery of the ulcerated area. Hospitalization may be needed.

Prompt treatment is essential to avoid more serious complications, especially in children.

What is a black widow spider?

A black widow spider is a small, shiny, black, button-shaped spider with a red hourglass mark on its abdomen, and prefers warm climates. Black widow spider bites release a toxin that can cause damage to the nervous system, thus emergency medical treatment is necessary.

What are the symptoms of a black widow spider bite?

The following are the most common symptoms of a black widow spider bite. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

Immediate pain, burning, swelling, and redness at the site (double fang marks may be seen)
Cramping pain and muscle rigidity in the stomach, chest, shoulders, and back
Headache
Dizziness
Rash and itching
Restlessness and anxiety
Sweating
Eyelid swelling
Nausea or vomiting
Salivation, tearing of the eyes
Weakness, tremors, or paralysis, especially in the legs

These symptoms of a black widow spider bite may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis.

What is the treatment for a black widow spider bite?

Specific treatment for a black widow spider bite will be determined by your doctor. Treatment may include:

Washing the area well with soap and water.
Applying a cold or ice pack wrapped in a cloth, or a cold, wet washcloth to the site.
Protecting against infection, particularly in children, by applying an antibiotic lotion or cream.
Giving acetaminophen for pain.
Elevating the site if the bite occurred on an arm or leg (to help prevent swelling).
Seeking immediate emergency care for further treatment. Depending on the severity of the bite, treatment may include muscle relaxants, pain relievers and other medications, and supportive care. Antivenin may be needed, although it is usually not required. Hospitalization may be needed.