Spider bites : First aid-Conditions-Prevention
What is Spider bites: First aid?
Spider bites can be a common occurrence, especially in areas where spiders are prevalent. It is important to know how to administer first aid to someone who has been bitten by a spider.
Spider bites: First aid encompasses the immediate steps that should be taken to provide relief and prevent any further complications. Being aware of the signs and symptoms of a spider bite and knowing the appropriate first aid measures can greatly assist in minimizing the impact of the bite and promoting a speedy recovery.
Symptoms Spider bites
Inflamed skin, ache and swelling.
Severe belly ache or cramping.
Nausea, vomiting, shaking or sweating.
First aid
Bites from a few spider species are not usually dangerous. But bites from some spider species can be very dangerous.
Seek medical care immediately if:
You may have been bitten by a spider that is dangerous, such as a black widow or a brown recluse.
You're not sure if the bite was from a dangerous spider.
If you experience severe abdominal pain or a growing wound at the bite site, it means that you were bitten by a venomous snake.
You might be having problems breathing or swallowing.
The area of the sore has a redness or streaks that are spreading.
If you get bitten by a spider, here is what you should do:
Clean the wound with mild soap and water. Apply an antibiotic ointment to it three times a day to prevent infection.
Apply a cold compress to the bite every hour for fifteen minutes. Use a clean cloth to wet it and then put it on the bite to reduce pain and swelling.
If possible, raise the affected area.
If you experience pain, take an over-the-counter pain reliever as needed.
If the wound is itchy, an antihistamine such as Benadryl or Zyrtec might help.
If your doctor prescribes pain medicine or muscle relaxants to you for pain and muscle spasms, you may also need a tetanus shot.
Black widow spiders
The black widow spider is usually marked with a red hourglass on its belly. This spider is more common in the south of the United States, and it is also found in Europe.
The symptoms of a black widow spider bite can include: pain, swelling, redness, itchiness, and a rash.
Redness, pain and swelling
Cramps or stiffness in the stomach area
Nausea, vomiting, tremors or sweating
Brown recluse spider
The brown recluse spider has a distinctive violin-shaped marking on its back. However, this marking can be difficult to see. This spider is commonly found in the southern United States and in South America, where it is known as the brown spider.
Some signs and symptoms of a brown recluse spider bite may include:
At first, a mild pain
Fever, chills and body aches
If you get a bite that is deep blue or purple, and around the bite there may be a red ring, that means you are sick.
