How to Treat a Brown Recluse Spider Bite

The brown recluse is a venomous spider with a bite that can be dangerous. You may not be aware that you have been bitten by a brown recluse spider until symptoms of the bite appear, which can be hours or days later. Symptoms of a brown recluse spider bite include reddening skin that develops into a blister at the site of the bite, along with mild to intense pain and itching. Here's how to treat a brown recluse spider bite.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Remain calm to help slow the spread of the spider's venom.
2. Cool the area around the area of the bite with an ice pack to help control inflammation. Cover the area with a washcloth and place an ice bag over the washcloth.
3. Elevate the bite area, and apply aloe vera to help soothe the pain.
4. Seek medical attention if the bite is severe. (Most bites are minor and will heal by themselves.) If the bite is so severe as to lead to necrosis, multiple visits to a physician may be necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• A severe brown recluse spider can lead to necrosis, or tissue breakdown around the area of the bite. This can begin in a few hours or up to a few days after the bite and can take months to heal.
• Severe reactions to a brown recluse spider bite include an all-over rash, nausea, vomiting and joint pain.