Spider Bite

Definition


Symptoms

Types of Spider Bites

Black Widow Spider Bite

Brown Recluse Spider Bite

Non-dangerous Spider Bites

FIRST AID Advice for Shock: Lie down with feet elevated.

FIRST AID Advice for Spider Bite (localized symptoms only):

FIRST AID Advice for Black Widow Spider Bite:

FIRST AID Advice for Brown Recluse Spider Bite:

When to Call Us for Spider Bite

Call 911 Now (your child may need an ambulance) If

  • Trouble breathing or wheezing
  • Passed out or too weak to stand
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency

Call Us Now (night or day) If

  • Your child looks or acts very sick
  • Black or brown widow spider bite suspected (see FIRST AID)
  • Stomach pain, chest tightness or other muscle cramps
  • Bite pain is severe and not improved after using care advice
  • Fever and bite looks infected (spreading redness)
  • You think your child needs to be seen urgently

Call Us During Weekday Office Hours If

  • You have other questions or concerns

Parent Care at Home If

  • Non-serious spider bite

CARE ADVICE FOR NON-DANGEROUS SPIDER BITES

What You Should Know:
  • Most spider bites look and feel like a bee sting.
  • The main symptoms are pain and redness.
  • Here is some care advice that should help.
Cleansing:
  • Wash the bite well with soap and water.
Cold Pack:
  • For pain or swelling, use a cold pack. You can also use ice wrapped in a wet cloth.
  • Put it on the bite for 20 minutes.
Pain Medicine:
  • To help with the pain, give acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen. Use as needed. See Dose Table.
What to Expect:
  • The swelling and pain lasts for 1 to 2 days.
  • It should not be any worse than a bee sting.
Call Your Doctor If:
  • Severe bite pain lasts more than 2 hours after pain medicine
  • Stomach pains or muscle cramps occur
  • Bite pain lasts more than 2 days (48 hours)
  • Bite starts to look infected
  • Your child becomes worse
Black Widow Spider

Brown Recluse Spider


And remember, contact us if your child develops any of the "Call Us" symptoms.

Author and Senior Reviewer: Barton D. Schmitt, M.D.

Copyright 1994-2013 Barton D. Schmitt, M.D.