what to do with a spider bite
What to do with a spider bite
Most spider bites can be treated at home with basic first aid: wash the area with soap and water, apply a cool compress, elevate the limb if you can, and use an over-the-counter pain reliever or antihistamine if needed. Seek urgent medical care if you develop severe pain, spreading redness, muscle cramps, fever, trouble breathing, or if you think the bite may be from a black widow or brown recluse spider.
[1][5][9]Quick scoop
| What to do | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Wash with mild soap and water | Helps lower infection risk and clean the wound | [5][9]
| Apply a cool compress for 15 minutes at a time | Can reduce pain, swelling, and itching | [9][5]
| Elevate the area if possible | May help reduce swelling | [1][5][9]
| Use pain relief or an antihistamine if appropriate | Can ease pain and itching | [9][1]
When to get help
- Get immediate medical attention if symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening. [1]
- Seek care right away if you suspect a black widow or brown recluse bite. [5][1]
- Watch for signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or fever. [5][9]
- Do not try to suck out the venom or cut the bite open. [1]
Extra note
If you can safely do so, try to remember what the spider looked like, because that can help a clinician decide whether the bite needs special treatment.
[5][1]TL;DR: Clean it, cool it, elevate it, and monitor it; get medical help if the symptoms are severe, spreading, or you suspect a dangerous spider.
[9][1][5]