Insect and spider bites are a common nuisance. Ordinarily, a bite causes only minor discomfort – a little redness, and some pain or itching. Often, home treatment or a first aid kit is all that is needed to treat it. However, some people experience severe allergic reaction to bites, which may be life-threatening.
Certain spiders such as black widow spider, brown recluse spider, and hobo spider, scorpion and puss caterpillar, wasps and bees, and other insects can cause a toxic reaction from a bite or sting. The symptoms below are considered serious allergic reactions to bug and spider bites and stings. Although they are not common, it is important to be aware of the possible effect once bitten, since an anaphylactic shock is possible from certain bites and stings.
Symptoms
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of lips, tongue, ears, eyelids, hands and feet
- Disorientation and confusion
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Hives
- Reddening of the area around the bite (only if it grows and expands over 10 inches)