spider bites

Spider bites can often invoke varying degrees of terror in several people. In most cases, bite victims do not really know what kind of insect they have been bitten by. However, it is usually assumed that the bite was caused by a spider. The truth is that out of all the 30,000 species of spiders in the world, there are about 100 species that do bite humans. There are six species of spiders in North America that have been known to inflict harm on people. These six species are the black widow, the brown recluse, the red-legged widow, sac spiders, the brown widow and the varied widow. Two of these species, mainly, the black widow and the brown recluse, are poisonous. Although deaths caused by spider bites are few and rare, treating these bites immediately is absolutely essential. Therefore, it is best to know the exact symptoms of spider bites, in order to make an accurate diagnosis.

Spider bites symptoms

In several cases of spider bites, the bite is not evident on its own. Spider bites are not usually painful and some of the first symptoms are cramps and pain in the abdominal area. The abdomen becomes as hard as a board and the pain becomes intense. Shortness of breath is also a common symptom, which would cause a person to grunt. Other common symptoms that usually accompany spider bites are tingling hands, shaking, twitching, sweating, headaches, vomiting and nausea. The toxins in spider bites could lead to redness, swelling and local pain. However, in case of spider bites from the female black widow spider, spasms, rigidity and generalized muscle pains are caused.

Spider bites treatments

There are several medications that can be used for the treatment of spider bites. The exact method of treating a spider bite varies, depending on the species of spider that has caused the bite. In case of the black widow spider bites, it is possible to relieve the pain, with the use of muscle relaxants and other forms of medication, which may also include anti-venom medicines. It is best to consult a doctor, for medication and treatment options.

However, in the meantime, there are certain steps that can be taken at home, in case of spider bites.
  • Clean the wound with soap and water, but be careful while cleaning the skin around the bite.
  • Try to slow down the rate at which the venom spreads. If the bite is on the arm or the leg, this is possible by tying a snug bandage just above the bite and keeping that limb elevated. However, the bandage should not be so tight that the circulation of blood to the arm or leg is cut off.
  • Apply a piece of cloth that has been dipped in cold or ice water, to the wound.
You could treat the spider bites medically if you find no relief with home remedies for spider bites.
 
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