The black widow spider is roughly an inch long, making it a medium-sized insect. There are two species found throughout the country:
A southern black widow. The abdomen of this particular spider is shiny and black, and it is formed like a sphere. Observe the underside for the distinctive red hourglass shape.
It’s the northern version of the black widow. A line of bright red dots runs vertically across the top of its abdomen. The underside also features two bars running perpendicular to the first pair. Markings can also be yellow or white for variety’s sake. A brown spider may have red legs or vice versa.
These spiders tend to come out after dark. They feel most at home in obscure places with low levels of light, such as basements and garages. They are only dangerous when provoked.
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Symptoms
Black widow spiders have neurotoxic venom. To some, it may have only a little impact, while for others, it could be devastating. Pain, burning, swelling, and redness are all common initial reactions. A double set of teeth imprints is possible.
Other symptoms include:
- Painful, tight muscles, typically within 8 hours
- Feeling sick to one’s stomach or throwing up
- Problems breathing
- Excruciating cramping discomfort in the stomach
- Superfluous perspiration
- Skin irritation and itchiness
- Ocular lid swelling
- Fragility or shaking. You could be unable to use your legs.
Some of the signs and symptoms of a black widow bite may be similar to those of other illnesses. However, if you think you may have been bitten by this spider, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor.
IMPORTANT: Rush to the ER if you think your kid was bitten by a black widow. A child’s life can be lost from one of these bites.
The following are some measures you can take to alleviate your symptoms and stop the spread of illness while you wait:
- Soap and water should be used to clean the area.
- Place a cold compress, such as a cloth-wrapped ice pack or cold washcloth, on the affected area.
- Consider using an OTC pain killer, such as Tylenol.
- Keep the affected limb or arm elevated to reduce swelling.
- The bite should be treated with an antibiotic ointment or lotion.
To avoid missing your doctor’s appointment, you should try to kill and trap the spider (either by placing it in a plastic bag or a jar). This will prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were bitten by a black widow spider.
Your doctor will evaluate your current condition and determine if any additional therapy is required. Muscle relaxants and greater pain medication may be required if the cramps are severe. Even though it’s uncommon, you could end up needing to spend the night in the hospital.
An antivenin injection may be necessary if your symptoms are severe. Substances found in horse blood are used to create this medication. The venom of the black widow spider can be countered by antivenin. That means it won’t hurt you in the first place!
You won’t get this treatment until your doctor consults with someone who knows how to handle these bites. Since antivenin has several potential adverse effects, your doctor will need to keep a close eye on you for at least a week after administering it.
Prevention
Black widow spiders favor shady, dark, and cool locations. The only time they bite is if you startle or surprise them. Keeping storage places tidy can help lessen the likelihood of being bitten. Also, when you’re outside, it’s best to steer clear of any woodpiles or downed trees that can provide cover.
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