When it comes to spider bites, it is vital that you are prepared to handle one whether at home or while outdoors. Some individuals are not even aware that they already sustained a spider bite.
How to deal with venomous spiders
Almost all spiders are considered poisonous or venomous. Most spiders have venom that is too weak to be dangerous to humans. The black widow spiders are considered as the most venomous. Another well-known spider is the brown recluse spider that has a weaker toxin.
The brown recluse spider can cause large wounds that are less likely to cause significant injury than the black widow spider bites. The skin infections can cause boils that are often misdiagnosed as brown recluse spider bites.
In other countries, there are also other dangerous species. In Australia, there are venomous species such as the white tail spiders, red black spiders and the funnel web spiders.
Indications of spider bites
Figuring out if an individual has been bitten by a spider might be difficult. Based on studies conducted, many victims seek treatment more than 3 days after being bit which makes it impossible to identify the culprit. The local reactions to bites from all forms of toxic insects appear the same such as the following:
- Pain
- Redness
- Itchiness
- Swelling
If a localized reaction becomes worse for more than 24 hours, it is best to consult a doctor. Check for redness that radiates away from the bite site, increasing pain, drainage from the bite site, discoloration around the bite site and numbness or tingling sensations. In addition, a doctor should be consulted if the individual is not updated with his/her tetanus vaccinations.
Risk for anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is always a big issue with any insect bites particularly spider bites. If the individual shows indications of an allergic reaction after sustaining a bite such as the following, call for emergency assistance.
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness
- Hives
- Wheezing
The individual should also seek medical care if the symptoms manifest in other parts of the body away from the site of the spider bite. Always bear in mind that black widow spiders have a toxin that upsets the contraction of muscles as well as the nerve function. In severe cases of brown recluse spider bites, it can cause some symptoms all over the body such as the following:
- Headache
- Sweating
- Chills
- Body aches
- Stomach cramps
- Rapid pulse rate
- Leg cramping
- Exhaustion