Two Venomous Spiders You Should Know About

Most spiders within America are harmless, but there are two renowned spiders with a “dangerous” reputation: the brown recluse and the black widow. Continue reading for all you need to know. 

BROWN RECLUSE

The brown recluse, identified by the violin shape on the top of the is found in closets, barns attics, and other cryptic areas waiting for prey to come near. Brown recluse spider bites feel mild but can cause severe pain and local redness that usually develops within eight hours or more after the bite. Some brown recluse spider bites may include a purple or blue area around the bite, which is surrounded by a whitish ring and a large outer ring in a bull’s eye pattern.

A fluid blister then forms at the spider bite site, and then sloughs off, revealing a deep ulcer that may turn black. This is caused by the necrotic venom in brown recluse bites. Other signs and symptoms of a black widow or brown recluse spider bite may include abdominal or joint pain, fever, nausea, and headache.

BLACK WIDOW

The black widow is known by its black body and red hourglass shape found on the underside of the abdomen. Bite symptoms are immediate pain, burning, redness, and swelling. Other signs and symptoms of a black widow spider bite are a feeling of a pinprick, and sometimes double fang marks where the spider bit.

WHEN TO WORRY ABOUT A SPIDER BITE

Although it’s common to have a healthy fear of spiders, spiders only bite if they feel threatened. That said, spider bites are known to become swollen in the area of the bite. However, there are other, less well-known signs of when a spider bite has an effect on the body that is cause for concern.

SYMPTOMS TO LOOK FOR AFTER A SPIDER BITE 

An allergic reaction to a spider bite will happen almost immediately after the venom has gotten into the bloodstream.

Toxic reaction to a spider bite can reveal itself in various ways: 

• Nausea, vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Fever 
• Weakness 
• Lightheadedness 
• Rapid swelling at the site of the bite 
• Muscle spasms 
• Headache 
• Drowsiness 
• Fainting  
• Red streaks leading from the bite 
• Pus draining from the bite or sting 
• A fever 
• Increased pain 

If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately consult a doctor. In the meantime, contact your local Mosquito Squad and ask about their add-on services for spider control. 

For more information, check out our previous blog on knowing the difference between a mosquito bite and a spider bite!