Black widow spider

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Arachnids, basic features

Arthropods, basic features

Black widow spider

This first symptom is usually pain similar to a pinprick. This sensation is felt when the bite is actually made. Some people may not feel it. There may be minor swelling and redness.

Fifteen minutes to an hour later, a dull muscle pain spreads from the bite area to the entire body.

• If the bite is on the upper body, you will usually feel most of the pain in your chest.
• If the bite is on your lower body, you will usually feel most of the pain in the abdomen.

The following symptoms can also occur:

• Muscle weakness
• Numbness
• Increased sweating
• Increased salivation
• Difficulty breathing
• Nausea and vomiting
• Restlessness
• Anxiety
• Headache
• High blood pressure

Pregnant women may have contractions and go into premature labor.

Review Date: 02/13/2006
Reviewed By: Stephen C Acosta, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland VA MedicalCenter, Portland, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.