What if a spider bites you? The thought of spider bites can be quite unsettling. Most spider bites do not harm humans. However, few spiders are dangerous. It includes black widow spiders, brown recluse spiders, yellow sac spiders, and hobo spiders. Understanding how to treat spider bites depends upon the species of spider.
For starters, let’s find out why do spiders bite and how to identify a spider bite.
Let’s dive in!
Why do spiders bite?
Typically, spiders do not bite humans as they do not prey on humans. In situations where a spider finds the need to protect itself or finds itself in a trapped position, it may try to bite a person as a defense mechanism. Spider fangs are generally too small to be able to penetrate human skin with ease.
What do spider bites look like?
Spider bites look extremely similar to insect bites. Just like in the case of insect bites, spider bites may cause a slight bumpiness and swell on your skin. Spider bites also cause redness and itchiness for some time, which can be irritating and mildly painful to go through. However, all these reactions are only for a temporary period, unless you have been bit by a poisonous spider.
Are spider bites dangerous?
Spider bites are generally harmless and can be managed with ease at home. For a spider bite to be dangerous, a substantial amount of the spider’s venom must be injected into your body. However, some spiders are venomous and dangerous, and their bites can cause severe reactions unless treated immediately. Certain types of spiders, such as widow spiders and South American wandering spiders are known to cause significant adverse reactions such as muscle cramps, vomiting, and chest pain.
What to do after a spider bite?
Below are tips on what to do after a spider bite:
- Clean the affected area: Much like any other insect bite, your first reaction should be to clean the affected area with soap and water as much as possible.
- Apply an antibiotic cream: If you have access to trusted antibiotic cream, apply it to the affected area.
- Use an ice pack or cold cloth: Get an ice pack or soak a cloth in cold water, followed by covering it around the ice. Place the ice pack or cloth over the bite area and gently press it for some time. This will help in soothing the reaction of the spider bite.
- Temporary medication: If you have a trusted or prescribed painkiller, you can choose to take it in advised doses to reduce the pain from the bite. You can also take an antihistamine for reducing the impact of the swelling.
- Consult a doctor: If you have prolonged pain, swelling, and skin irritation after a spider bite, you may need to consult a medical professional and get the necessary treatment for it.
Final Words
If you want to avoid spider bites, simply get rid of them from your home or business and keep them away for good. The professional experts provide reliable spider control services to get rid of spiders and prevent them from returning.