Just got a spider bite...what do i do?!
Question:
Just got a spider bite...what do i do?
i live in rhode island and I just got what i think is a spider bite right where my palm and ring finger connect. it is getting slighly black and blue now. i got bitten before and it was really painful and I dont want it to hurt again. what should I do to treat this? is it serious?
please, i appreciate your help. thanks
Answers:
There are only 4 known species of spiders in the Americas that are dangerous to humans: the black widow, the brown recluse, the hobo and the yellow sac.
The yellow sac is the most common in New England. The northern black widow does include New England in its range but they are rare. The brown recluse has been spotted here even though they are not indigenous to this area (as reported by WCVB out of Boston). The hobo hasn't been reported here as far as I can find.
The bite of the yellow sac is instantly painful, much like a hornet or a bee. If you didn't feel any instant pain then it's doubtful it was a yellow sac despite the fact they are most common. That would leave the brown recluse or black widow; their bites don't hurt right away (stealthy little buggers) but they are more poisonous.
If you really did experience a spider bite, here is some info on treatment:
Things NOT to do:
1) Do not apply heat of any kind as this acclerates tissue destruction.
2) Do not apply any steroid creams to the area such as hydrocortisone cream.
3) Do not attempt to remove the spider venom or cut out the affected tissue.
Things to do::
1) Apply ice to decrease pain and swelling.
2) Wash the area thoroughly with cool water and mild soap.
3) Avoid any strenuous activity because this can spread the spider's venom in your skin.
4) Elevate area if possible above the level of your heart.
5) Use acetaminophen for pain relief.
It is highly recommended that you visit a physician, clinic or emergency room if you suspect you have been bitten by a venomous spider.