Spider bite: how to recognize it and how to treat it?

2023-04-24 18:28:27

Whether you’re on vacation in the middle of nature or even sheltered at home, a spider bite can happen. But no need to panic: these 8 legged animals often do more fear than harm.

Sting or spider bite?

If we are used to talking about spider bite, in reality it is more exactly a bite. Because if the insects bite, the arachnids (family of which the scorpion also belongs!) they bite! Another thing to know: spiders do not bite without reason but only when they are provoked, when they feel in danger (for example if it is in our sheets and we disturb it when entering our bed)… The spiders that can be encountered on a daily basis (in the garden, the attic, the cellar, etc.) are generally harmless, but certain less common species are particularly dangerous for humans, such as the Black Widow or the tarantula whose bite can be fatal…

How to recognize a spider bite?

The spiders that you can come across in France are not among the most dangerous. The most feared reaction with these little beasts? A inflammatory reaction ! Generally, their bite will cause a local, moderate, temporary reaction… which can be relieved quickly! To recognize a spider bite, we rely on the presence of 2 small holes close together, often accompanied by redness, itching and swelling of the skin. The spider can bite several times and for this reason an accumulation of red dots can be observed. But not all spider bites are alike because it depends on the spider and our immune reaction to the venom. In the South of France and on the island of beauty that is Corsica, the black widow spider can inflict more serious damage. The black widow spider is a species recognizable by the small red spots on its body: it is venomous and neurotoxic. And in case of a sting, no hesitation, we go instantly head to the hospital.

How to treat a spider bite?

To control the inflammatory reaction, we act without delay.

1. On wash the wound with soap and water.
2. On disinfected the pricked area with a chlorhexidine antiseptic.
3. If possible, we apply a pocket of cold on the spider bite. Its analgesic effect will prevent the appearance of edema.
4. We check if we are up to date tetanus vaccine.

Depending on the appearance of the pimples from the spider bite, a cream containing corticosteroids can be applied to limit the itching. Generally without prescription in pharmacies. It is then applied 1 to 2 times a day until the total disappearance of the pimples caused by the bite.

On the other hand, if a large edema, burning, inflammation, redness and strong pain appear on the area bitten by the spider, we consult a general practitioner.

Can a spider bite be dangerous?

Yes, and even deadly in the case of certain spiders that can be encountered in America or Australia. But that’s not the only risk to be wary of when crossing the fangs of an arachnid!

Do not neglect the importance of good disinfection because if it is not correct it can lead to lymphangitis (as with any insect bite). It is recognized because a red streak appears between the bite and a hollow in the abdomen or armpit and is accompanied by the appearance of lymph nodes and fever. In the most critical cases, lymphangitis may require hospitalization.

Finally, there is a risk of allergic reaction to spider venom.

What to do if you are allergic?

Some people can develop an allergic reaction spider bites, such as Quincke’s edema which will cause swelling (lips, tongue, eye contour, hands and feet). In this case, we call Sam (15). An antivenom is sometimes necessary to solve the problem in allergic people.

Thanks to Sandrine Rousselot, pharmacist, National Order of Pharmacists

Read also:

• How to treat a centipede bite?

• How to treat a jellyfish sting?

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