When Do Spiders Bite?

Spiders are arachnids, or insects that have eight legs and a body. They’re not intended to bite humans, but some species can. Most spiders are shy and don’t bother you. But there are a few types of spiders that can cause you some serious problems.

The black widow spider is one of the most deadly. This small, black spider has a red hourglass marking on its belly. It can live under fallen trees or woodpiles, or it can be driven indoors by very hot temperatures.

In general, all spiders have venom, but only two are known to sting humans. These are the black widow and the brown recluse. A bite from a spider may cause swelling, itching, and blistering.

If you’re bitten by a spider, the first thing you should do is clean the area with soap and water. You should also elevate the site to keep the swelling down.

Some people have an allergic reaction to spider bites. If your skin begins to swell, get medical help right away. An anaphylactic reaction can be life-threatening.

For a simple, nonvenomous spider bite, you might be able to itch it away. However, if the bite becomes infected, you will need to seek medical help.

There are more than 40,000 spider species in the world, with only a few of them venomous. These include the hobo, the black widow, and the brown recluse.

If you are bitten by a venomous spider, the bite might lead to a blistering rash and a fever. It can also lead to nausea and vomiting.