How Bad Are Red Back Spiders?
The Redback Spider is one of the most common species in Australia. It is also found in New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, and Japan. It is mainly nocturnal, and will hide during the day.
The Redback Spider will use its web to capture its prey. The prey is then wrapped in silk threads. When the prey is ready to die, the spider will drag it back to its web to feed.
The Redback Spider’s venom is toxic, but not life threatening. It produces a range of symptoms, including pain, vomiting, and sweating. The venom can also cause localised swelling.
Some people who are bitten by the Redback Spider experience a severe allergic reaction. This can be anaphylactic shock. The person may develop chest and abdominal pain. It is important to seek medical attention right away, especially if the symptoms do not go away. Anti-venom should be considered if the pain does not go away.
It is rare for adults to be bitten by the Redback Spider. The spiders are normally found in areas with a warm climate for breeding.
When a person is bitten by a Redback Spider, they can be left suffering for hours or even days. The pain will begin to set in about 5 to 60 minutes after being bitten. A cold compress will help alleviate the pain.
Those who are bitten by a Redback Spider should seek immediate medical assistance. A doctor can administer adrenaline via an autoinjector. If the bite is non-remitting, opiates might be needed.