Black widow spider Health Article

Definition

The black widow spider (Latrodectus mactans) has a shiny black body with a red hourglass-shape on the belly area. The bite of a black widow spider is poisonous.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Poisonous Ingredient

The venom of the black widow spider contains poisonous chemicals that make people sick.

Where Found

Black widows are found throughout the United States but predominantly in the South and West. They are usually found in barns, sheds, stone walls, fences, woodpiles, porch furniture, and other outdoor structures.

Symptoms

This first symptom is usually pain similar to a pinprick. This sensation is felt when the bite is actually made. Some people may not feel it. There may be minor swelling and redness.

Fifteen minutes to an hour later, a dull muscle pain spreads from the bite area to the entire body.

• If the bite is on the upper body, you will usually feel most of the pain in your chest.
• If the bite is on your lower body, you will usually feel most of the pain in the abdomen.

The following symptoms can also occur:

• Anxiety
• Difficulty breathing
• Extremely painful muscle cramps
• Headache
• High blood pressure
• Increased salivation
• Increased sweating
• Muscle weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Numbness
• Restlessness
• Seizures (usually seen just before death in children)

Pregnant women may have contractions and go into premature labor.

Home Treatment

Seek immediate emergency medical treatment. Wrap ice in a washcloth or similar material and place it on the bite area. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then off for 10 minutes. Repeat this process.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• Patient's age, weight, and condition
• Time the bite occurred
• Area where the bite occurred
• Type of spider, if possible