How to Identify Brown Recluse Spider Bites

The brown recluse is a poisonous spider found in Southeastern and Midwestern states. Sitings of brown recluse spiders outside these states is very rare. The bite of the spider can range in seriousness from hardly noticeable to fatal. If you suspect that you've been bitten by a brown recluse, a careful analysis of symptoms and examining the appearance of the bite location can help you make that determination and decide what, if any, treatment is needed.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine if you have been bitten. Some brown recluse victims feel nothing, while others report a sting similar to that of a bee. Aside from the initial pinprick sensation, it might take two to eight hours for other symptoms to develop. Systemic reactions might include restlessness, fever, chills, nausea and increasing pain around the bite, according to The Ohio State University Department of Entomology. Children and those with pre-existing health problems tend to have the most serious reactions.

• 2

  Be aware of any changes in appearance around the bite. Most commonly, a brown recluse bite will become firm in the hours just after the bite, and will heal over a few days or weeks. However, some bites develop redness and blistering, and even necrosis --- death of the skin tissue. These more serious wounds can take considerably longer to heal and can result in permanent scarring.

• 3

  Seek medical treatment. The National Institutes of Health recommends that brown recluse victims seek same-day medical treatment to assess the seriousness of the reaction. Even if symptoms initially appear mild, they can become severe in a matter of hours. Medical professionals can give medicine to alleviate pain and can monitor your vital signs for danger signals. Ongoing medical care can assist with the treatment of a necrotic wound, which could take months to fully heal. Most deaths associated with brown recluse bites are seen in small children or those with compromised health.