How to Treat a Black Widow Spider Bite

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:TreatBlackWidowSpiderBite
Post By :
Anonymous
Rate:
Vote

How to Treat a Black Widow Spider Bite

Introduction

Initially, you might not even feel a black widow spider's venomous bite. The pain usually progresses up or down the bitten arm or leg, then gathers in your back, abdomen and sometimes the soles of your feet. You may also have chest tightness, swollen eyelids, sweating, shaking, vomiting or difficulty breathing. The good news is, the bite of a black widow spider is rarely deadly. Here's how to properly treat a black widow spider bite.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Steps

1

Step One

Remain calm. The bigger your reaction to the bite, the more quickly the spider's venom will get into your bloodstream and begin to circulate.
2

Step Two

Clean the area around the bite thoroughly with soap and water.
3

Step Three

Apply a cool compress to the area of the bite to reduce swelling.
4

Step Four

If the bite is on a hand, foot, arm or leg, elevate the area of the bite above the level of your heart to reduce swelling and slow the spread of the venom.
5

Step Five

Apply an antiseptic such as iodine or hydrogen peroxide to the area to help prevent infection.
6

Step Six

Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Calcium gluconate or an antiserum can be administered to counteract the venom.

Overall Tips & Warnings

  • If possible, get a hold of the spider so that it can be positively identified as a black widow.
  • In the most serious cases, convulsions and unconsciousness may occur.
  • Sucking out the poison doesn't work. Don't try it.
Tools: |