Spider Bites

Most spider bites are not harmful, only irritating.  Most bites cause a bump to form resulting in itching, usually they will resolve within a few days.  There is however two types of spiders that can cause more serious damage if left untreated and in very severe cases they can even cause death.

Black Widow Bites

Signs and Symptoms:

• Painful, rigid abdomen
• Severe muscle pain
• Excessive salivation
• Sweating
• Nausea/vomiting
• Headaches
• Weakness
• Anxiety
• Breathing problems

Brown Recluse Bites

The Brown Recluse lives in the southern and Midwestern states, it has been reported in large numbers to be found in TN, AK, OK and TX.  There have also been a few sightings in HI and CA.  Although this bite is normally painless it can cause serious damage.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Tissue necrosis at the site of the bite over days to weeks
• Chills
• Fever
• Nausea/vomiting
• Joint painbleeding disorders

Elderly and young children are at the highest risk for the more severe symptoms.  Any suspected spider bite for either a Black Widow or Brown Recluse should be immediately evaluated by a physician.