When Should You Be Concerned About A Spider Bite?

May 3, 2013 | Uncategorized

Spiders often get a bad reputation.  They are creepy, crawly creatures and we fear their bite.  They are often blamed for skin irritations but the fact is that 80% of presumed spider bites are actually due to some other insect bite or skin infection.  Most spider bites are harmless and done by accident.  However, there are spiders that can cause real harm (black widow, brown recluse).  Not only can the bite be painful but the spider’s venom can cause pain as well.  Non-venomous spider bite pain will typically last 5 minutes to an hour but a venomous spider bite can be painful for longer than 24 hours.

So when should you be concerned about a spider bite?

Seek medical attention if:

• pain at the site of the spider bite lasts for longer than 24 hours
• spreading redness around the site
• puss draining from the bite site
• increase in pain
• numbness
• tingling
• discoloration around the site

In rare situations, spider bites can cause allergic reaction.  In this case, you should seek immediate medical attention.

If you are concerned about spiders in or around your home, call a professional exterminator to identify the problem and develop a customized plan to rid your home of spiders.

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