Many people fear spiders. These tiny creepy crawlies can hide in remote locations both indoors and outdoors. People can stumble upon one in attics, basements, closets, garages, and woodpiles. When this happens, any movement can trigger them to attack.
In addition, a spider bite may result in many mild to life-threatening symptoms, the most serious being death. Only a handful of over 40,000 arachnid species are dangerous to humans. However, if you live in or are visiting Australia, where the most dangerous types of spiders reside, it’s best to be cautious of bites.
With that said, how would one know when a bite from a spider should be treated as an emergency? Here are several instances when you should seek emergency care if a spider bites you.
Experiencing Spider Bites
Common Spider Bite Symptoms
Not all spider bites are created equally. Different species of spiders can produce varying effects on many people. However, for the most part, the bite area from a common spider is much like that of other bug bites, mites, or even stings from insects.
Usually, bites from harmless spiders are just that – harmless. For example, if there were a spider bite face injury or a spider bite on the forehead, the site of the bite would generally turn red. It would also be slightly inflamed, have a manageable pain sensation, and have some itchiness. If you’ve experienced a bee sting (and aren’t allergic to it), you know they share symptoms with common harmless spiders. They even share symptoms with possible bacterial infections.
While some may find comfort here, one must remember that there are more dangerous spiders out there that bring about severe symptoms. Let’s take a look at several spiders that do so.
Severe Spider Bite Symptoms
Black Widow Spider Bite
As the name suggests, a black widow is a shiny jet-black spider. Its body has a red hourglass shape that makes it easy to identify. These are some of the more dangerous spiders typically found in Southern Europe, North and South America, Asia, and even Australia.
A bite from a black widow produces the same common spider bite symptoms. However, more serious ones can accompany it. These include:
- Severe muscle cramps or abdominal pain that can be mistaken for appendicitis;
- Nausea;
- Vomiting;
- Uncontrollable shaking;
- Profuse sweating.
Brown Recluse Spider Bite
The brown recluse spider is an arachnid found worldwide. Its body is tan or brown, and its legs are long and thin. The pain from the initial bite increases for the first eight hours. A person will also typically experience chills and a fever.
The bite from the brown recluse spider holds little venom. However, one unique feature of its venom is that it can affect blood vessels, nerves, and tissues. This could result in the death of skin cells or necrosis. Apart from its aesthetic damage, it can be treated in time.
This venom becomes even more potent if a person’s immune system is compromised. If bitten, severe symptoms manifest, such as:
- Fever,
- A rash,
- Vomiting,
- And dizziness.
Any signs of these symptoms could indicate an allergic reaction warranting medical treatment.
Emergency Spider Bite Situations
If You Know the Spider is Venomous
As stated previously, only a handful of venomous spiders exist in Australia. The most dangerous are the Sydney funnel web spider, the red-back spider, and the white-tailed spider. Knowing each of their characteristics may be helpful.
Funnel Web
The funnel web can be black or brown. Its bodies have a glossy sheen, and its carapace is hard and hair-covered.
Another distinct characteristic of the funnel web is the web that it spins. As the name suggests, its webs are shaped like funnels, and insects hide within. When an insect goes to the entrance, it quickly comes out and snatches it up.
If you encounter any of these funnel-like webs, it is best to steer clear.
These spiders are mostly found outdoors, especially in forests or gardens with many shrubberies. They tend to burrow holes and go under rocks or logs; they also reside in trees in exceptional cases.
Red Back
Similar to the previous spider, this one also has a shiny black body. The difference is that it has a red mark on its back shaped like an hourglass. The red mark is a clear and easy warning sign that you should stay away.
These spiders live much closer to humans and can be found in various unsuspecting parts of a person’s home.
While closer, these spiders are slightly fearful of humans when they make first contact. They tend to either run away or play dead.
White-Tailed
Finally, we have the white-tailed spider. Their body is very unique in terms of shape and colour. Variations in their colour range from grey to a dark red hue. Their bodies are shaped like long ovals and are supported by orange legs. As their name suggests, a hint of white looks like a tail behind them.
Like the funnel web, this spider can be found outdoors. They can be found in gardens, under rocks and logs, and in leaf piles.
If you know you’ve been bitten by one of these spiders, seeking medical help immediately is essential, as their bites can be lethal.
If You Didn’t See the Spider At All
If you were bitten and didn’t see the spider that caused it, there’s a chance it may have been venomous. If you aren’t sure and choose to wait for any symptoms to show up, it may be too late. Go to the hospital or call for an ambulance right away to be on the safe side.
In truth, seeing and being able to describe the spider that bit you is essential. It allows the doctor to treat you with the corresponding antivenom. However, even if you didn’t see it, it should not deter you from seeking medical assistance.
If You Are Allergic to Certain Venom
An allergic reaction to specific spider venom is one of the leading causes of debilitating and even fatal symptoms. One common spider is the tarantula, typically found in the southern deserts of America. Many people keep these as pets, and their bites are not that serious. However, it all changes if a person is allergic to tarantula venom.
Sometimes, a person is allergic to the venom in the spider’s fangs. The resulting reaction is anaphylaxis, otherwise known as an allergic reaction. Anyone with an allergy knows that if they are exposed, it is a serious matter that can end fatally. Symptoms like a blister or difficulty breathing could rapidly worsen if an allergy is present.
Unfortunately, there is no test to confirm if you are allergic to spider venom, let alone which spider. Watch out for specific reactions like swelling in the face, having trouble swallowing, and being unable to breathe. Furthermore, have some antihistamine stowed away for when you might need it.
If Symptoms Worsen
There are specific symptoms that, if they occur, you should get to the hospital immediately as it may be a matter of life or death.
If the affected area starts to swell up significantly or if there is severe pain, it’s an emergency. If you see necrosis, the death of tissue around the bite site, it may mean that the venom has started to spread, and you will need immediate medical attention.
Other symptoms like headache, nausea, vomiting, fever, and muscle weakness warrant a trip to the hospital as well.
If You Just Aren’t Sure
At the end of the day, if you aren’t sure whether or not the bite is an emergency, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Go to the hospital or seek medical care just in case. It’s always better to err on caution regarding your health and safety.
Tips to Avoid Bites From Spiders
You can do some things to avoid getting spider bites in the first place.
Be Aware Of Surroundings
For starters, be aware of your surroundings. If walking through a wooded area or garden, be wary of where you step and what you touch. Be careful when moving rocks or logs, as a spider may hide underneath.
Knowing which spiders are dangerous and where they can be residing helps significantly in this regard.
Spider-Proof Your Home
In terms of preventing spiders from entering your home, there are some things you can do there, too. Keep your house clean and clutter-free, as spiders like to hide in these places.
Seal any cracks or holes outside your home, as these may be entry points for spiders. You can also keep them out by using a spider repellent around the perimeter of your home.
Wear Protective Clothing
When you are in an environment where there may be spiders, it’s a good idea to wear protective clothing. This includes long pants and sleeves as well as closed-toe shoes. Wear gloves if you are working in an area with much vegetation.
Do Regular Checks
If you have been in an area where spiders may have been, it’s a good idea to check your body, clothes, and gear when you return. This is especially important if you are camping or hiking in an area with venomous spiders.
Bet on Being Bitten
Despite all these measures, there is still a chance you may get bitten by a spider. It’s important to know when a bite from a spider becomes an emergency so you can get the treatment you need. If you are ever in doubt, it’s always better to be safe and seek medical attention just to be sure.
Knowing when a spider bite is an emergency is equally essential, as is knowing the right first aid skills to help in these situations.
Learn all the relevant skills by taking CPR First Aid’s Liverpool course today. A CPR course or undergoing full first aid training will be a big benefit.