SPIDER BITES
The two most common poisonous spiders in the United States are the female
black widow and brown recluse. Besides these two spiders, most other bites
of spiders in North America are harmless, causing minor, localized
reactions.
Black Widow Spider. The black widow spider is a small, black
spider with a red, hourglass marking on its abdomen.
SYMPTOMS
- There is only a slight local reaction—with some pain—at the site
of the bite.
- The neurotoxin injected by the spider may cause pain, muscle spasm,
and paralysis in distant parts of the body.
- Vomiting and abdominal cramps.
TREATMENT
- Apply an ice pack to the area of the bite immediately.
- If shock occurs, take appropriate measures.
- Take the victim to the nearest hospital as soon as possible.
Treatment usually entails the administration of muscle relaxants and
pain medication. Although an antivenin is available, it is not
necessary in most cases.
Brown Recluse. The brown recluse is a small spider that has a
violin-shaped marking on its upper back. It is usually found in attics and
out-of-the-way corners.
SYMPTOMS
- The bite may not become apparent for several hours or days. But then
a red lesion appears that becomes a blister.
- The appearance of the blister may be followed by fever, nausea, and
a body rash.
- Blister may enlarge into a very painful ulceration.
TREATMENT
- Apply an ice pack to the area of the bite immediately.
- If shock occurs, take appropriate measures.
- Take the victim to the nearest hospital as soon as possible. Medical
evaluation is extremely important. Surgery may be necessary to repair
the ulcerated area.
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