2 Next
Topic: black widow spiders
Lakeman's photo
Thu 06/07/07 09:33 PM
Does the bite hurt?
Black widows, and other spiders, bite using a pair of fangs known as
chelicerae. The bite can go unnoticed, although it often produces an
immediate sharp, pin-prick pain. A slight swelling and redness may
develop at the bite site.

auburngirl's photo
Thu 06/07/07 09:43 PM
joyce, I don't really know. She missed a few days work is all I
remember. When she came back she had this very large target shaped
circle on her thigh. She thinks the spider was in the car in her garage
and that she sat on him... sorry, that's all I remember.

Lakeman's photo
Thu 06/07/07 09:43 PM
I found another that combines old and new info...

The black widow bite may feel like a pin prick, or it might not even be
felt at all.
You might notice two faint red spots surrounded by local redness at the
bite. At first, there may be only slight local swelling.
Pain usually progresses up or down the bitten arm or leg, finally
localizing in the abdomen and back. There may be pain in the muscles and
soles of the feet, and eyelids may become swollen.
Widow spiders inject a toxin that affects the nervous system
(neurotoxin). Muscle and chest pain or tightness are some of the most
common reactions to the widow toxin.
Other symptoms may be nausea, profuse perspiration, tremors, labored
breathing and speech, and vomiting.
In more serious cases, a weak pulse, cold clammy skin, unconsciousness,
or convulsions may occur.
Only the bite of the female, usually the adult female, is potentially
dangerous. Although extremely painful and temporarily debilitating,
fatalities from untreated widow bites are uncommon.
If bitten, remain calm, collect the spider, if possible, for positive
identification and get medical attention immediately.
Clean the site well with soap and water. Apply a cool compress over the
bite location and keep the affected limb elevated to about heart level.
Contact your physician, hospital and/or Poison Information Center.
Application of a mild antiseptic such as iodine or hydrogen peroxide
prevents infection. Try to keep the patient quiet and warm.
The very old, very young, and those with a history of high blood
pressure are at greatest risk. Prompt medical treatment can greatly
reduce the danger.
In severe cases, physicians can intravenously inject calcium gluconate
to counteract most effects of the toxin. A black widow antiserum also is
available.
Don't try to suck out the poison. It doesn't work.
Tips:
We have a statewide 24-hr toll free number for emergency access to the
Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center. Call 1-800-362-0101.

iRon's photo
Thu 06/07/07 10:09 PM
Joyce I hope your daughter is ok


flowerforyou flowerforyou flowerforyou

2 Next