A bite from a black widow spider usually occurs as a defensive action. The females are likely to deliver more venom than males. They are distinguished as long-legged, coal-black, shiny spiders with an red, orange or yellow shape on their bottom the same as an hourglass.
These spiders are frequently found in barbeque grills, garages, wood piles or close to swimming pools. Bites among infants and children might be serious than bites on adults.
Indications of a bite from a black widow spider
In most cases of bites from a black widow spider, the signs and symptoms include the following:
- Minor to intense pain followed by redness and swelling at the bite site
- One or two small-sized fangs comparable to tiny red spots
In some instances, severe symptoms manifest within 30-60 minutes such as:
- Sweating
- Muscle cramping and spasms close to the bite site that spreads and increases in severity for 6-12 hours
- Fever and chills
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Headache
- Intense back, abdominal or chest pain
- Restlessness, stupor or shock
- Severe high blood pressure
What should I do if I am bitten by one?
If an individual is suspected of being bitten by a black widow spider, the following must be done:
- Seek immediate medical care
- Keep the individual calm to slow down the flow of venom into the bloodstream
- Apply an ice pack on the bite site
- Do not use a tourniquet
- Try to identify the spider or catch it to confirm its type
Management
There are medications that work by counteracting the venom of the black widow spider. It is typically used if the individual has difficulty breathing, high blood pressure or pregnant.
The treatment also includes the following:
Medications for the spasms and pain. The pain and spasms might be severe enough to require the use of benzodiazepines such as diazepam or lorazepam or narcotics such as fentanyl or morphine. In some cases, calcium can be used. Additionally, antihypertension medications are given for high blood pressure.
More Information / Disclaimer
The information posted on this page on a black widow spider is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize and manage bites from black widow spiders by taking a standard first aid course with Ottawa First Aid.