How to Treat a Black Widow Spider Bite

Initially, you might not even feel a black widow spider's venomous bite. The pain usually progresses up or down the bitten arm or leg, then gathers in your back, abdomen and sometimes the soles of your feet. You may also have chest tightness, swollen eyelids, sweating, shaking, vomiting or difficulty breathing. The good news is, the bite of a black widow spider is rarely deadly. Here's how to properly treat a black widow spider bite.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Remain calm. The bigger your reaction to the bite, the more quickly the spider's venom will get into your bloodstream and begin to circulate.

2. Clean the area around the bite thoroughly with soap and water.

3. Apply a cool compress to the area of the bite to reduce swelling.

4. If the bite is on a hand, foot, arm or leg, elevate the area of the bite above the level of your heart to reduce swelling and slow the spread of the venom.

5. Apply an antiseptic such as iodine or hydrogen peroxide to the area to help prevent infection.
   

6. Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Calcium gluconate or an antiserum can be administered to counteract the venom.

Tips & Warnings

• If possible, get a hold of the spider so that it can be positively identified as a black widow.
• In the most serious cases, convulsions and unconsciousness may occur.
• Sucking out the poison doesn't work. Don't try it.

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