Black widow spider bites are nothing to ignore, as they can be deadly for young children or the elderly. Though the bites rarely result in death for the average adult, they are serious and do have the potential of becoming deadly. The bites also tend to become extremely painful as the venom seeps into your system.

Black Widow Spiders
Black widow spiders are medium-size, round and black arachnids. They have a red, yellow or orange, hourglass-shaped marking on their abdomens. They tend to live in warm areas and prefer dark, dry places to hide. It’s the female black widow spider that bites humans; the male of the species is usually seen as mostly harmless.

Black Widow Spider Bites
Black widow spiders are usually shy and not particularly aggressive. They only tend to attack when threatened, startled or touched. The bite can seem like a pinprick and is easy not to feel. The bite area will start to swell slightly and you may notice red bite marks. As the venom enters into your system, it can cause serious pain and stiffness.

Black Widow Spider Bite First Aid

1. Identify. The first thing you want to do if you suspect you’ve been bitten by black widow spider is to identify the spider. If it is at all possible, try to capture the spider so that it can be taken to a doctor for proper and definitive identification. This can help determine what treatment you will need.

2. Slow. To help slow the stream of spider venom into your system, tie a snug bandage above any bites on a limb. Make sure to tie the bandage snuggly, but not so tight that it cuts off circulation. You also want to keep yourself mentally and physically calm to help slow the movement of venom.

3. Chill. Keep the spider bite area cool with a damp washcloth or a rag filled with ice. Keeping the area cool will also help reduce the amount of venom that seeps into your system.

4. Seek. It’s important to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect you have been bitten by a black widow spider. Unless you have a family doctor that can see you right away, you’ll probably need to go to an emergency room.

Black Widow Spider Bite Treatment
Doctors may give you anti-venom to help neutralize the toxins if you have been bitten by a black widow spider. They may also use muscle relaxation medication to help ease stiffness and pain relievers to help ease pain.