Spider bite

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== Spider Bite ==

A spider bite is an injury resulting from the bite of a spider. The effects of a spider bite can vary significantly depending on the species of spider, the amount of venom injected, and the individual's sensitivity to the venom.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a spider bite can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

• Redness and swelling at the bite site
• Pain and itching
• Muscle pain and cramping
• Sweating
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting

In some cases, more severe reactions can occur, such as:

• Difficulty breathing
• Severe pain
• Ulceration at the bite site
• Systemic symptoms like fever and chills

Common Venomous Spiders

Some spiders are known for their venomous bites, which can cause significant medical issues. These include:

• Black Widow Spider
• Brown Recluse Spider
• Sydney Funnel-Web Spider
• Brazilian Wandering Spider

Treatment

Treatment for a spider bite depends on the severity of the symptoms and the type of spider involved. General first aid measures include:

• Cleaning the bite area with soap and water
• Applying a cold pack to reduce swelling
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers

For more severe bites, medical treatment may be necessary, including:

• Administration of antivenom
• Pain management
• Wound care for ulcerated bites

Prevention

Preventing spider bites involves reducing the risk of encountering spiders. Some preventive measures include:

• Keeping living areas clean and free of clutter
• Sealing cracks and gaps in doors and windows
• Using insect repellents
• Wearing protective clothing when in areas known to have venomous spiders

Related Pages

• Venom
• Insect bite
• Antivenom
• Arachnid
• First aid

Resources

Latest articles - Spider bite

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Source: Data courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Since the data might have changed, please query MeSH on Spider bite for any updates.

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