The brown recluse spider or fiddle-back spider can be found in dry, warm, abandoned areas such as rock or wood piles. A bite from this spider might only be a defensive action.
What are the indications of a brown recluse spider bite?
The bite from a brown recluse spider does not trigger any pain or discomfort right away. In most cases, one does not know that he/she was been bitten until the other symptoms manifest. The usual signs and symptoms include the following:
- Reddened skin that can be followed by the formation of a blister at the bite site.
- Mild to intense pain and itchiness for 2-8 hours after a bite
- Formation of an open sore with degeneration of the tissue after a week or more after a bite. This can take several months to fully heal.
In some individuals, they end up with a severe, body-wide reaction to the bites including the speedy degeneration of the red blood cells as well as anemia. The indications include the following:
- Generalized skin rash with tiny, flattened red and purple spots
- Fever and chills
- Joint pain
Instruct the individual to stay calm since excitement or motion increases the spread of venom into the bloodstream. - Nausea and/or vomiting
What must I do?
If an individual is suspected to have been bit by a brown recluse spider, the following must be done:
- Instruct the individual to stay calm since excitement or motion increases the spread of venom into the bloodstream.
- Place a damp, cool cloth over the bite site or cover the area with a cloth and apply an ice bag.
- Do not utilize a tourniquet since it will only result to more harm than good.
- Try to identify the spider or catch it to confirm its type
When to consult a doctor
There are cases in which a bite can be critical and requires immediate care. If the following are present, get in touch with a doctor:
- Generalized symptoms all over the body
- Open sore and tissue death develops
Management
The treatment for a bite from a brown recluse spider is based on its severity.
- If open sores do not develop, the treatment includes the application of a cold compress, elevation and limiting movement of the bite site.
- If an open sore and necrosis is present, the treatment involves the removal of the dead skin from the sore. This necessitates follow-up care and replacement of the dead skin with skin grafts. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy might also be used for the tissue damage.
The medication that might be given include:
- Pain medications such as acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen. Carefully read the labels and follow the instructions.
- Antibiotics if infection has developed.
- Antihistamines for relief to the itchiness.
More Information / Disclaimer
The information posted on this page on a brown recluse spider bite is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize and manage bites from a brown recluse spider by taking a standard first aid course with Saskatoon First Aid.