Why is my child reacting to a spider bite?

• When a spider bites it injects a venom.
• The venom causes the reaction, usually swelling, redness and pain.  
• There are many different types of spiders rarely are they dangerous.
• The spider bites of concern are Brown Recluse and Black/Brown Widow Spiders. 

What are the symptoms of a spider bite?

• Most common reactions for low-risk bites:
  • Pain, redness and swelling at the site
  • Usually starts to resolve in about 48 hours  
  • It can look like a bee sting  
• Most common reactions from a Black Widow:
  • You may see two fang marks
  • Swelling and pain are immediate  
  • Severe muscle cramps onset is usually 1 to 6 hours after bite
  • Cramping can last for 24 to 48 hours
  • Abdominal cramping onset is usually 1 to 6 hours after bite
  • Cramping can last for 24 to 48 hours  
• Most common reactions from a Brown Recluse:
  • Pain at the site of the bite
  • Blisters form within 4 to 8 hours after  
  • Two to three days after the bite, the center starts to look depressed and takes on a bluish look  
  • Your child may have a fever, muscle pain or vomit  

How can I prevent spider bites?

• Wash your child’s bedding in hot water and use the drier regularly  
• Clean regularly and be sure to check corners for spider webs
• When planning a trip to an area known to have spiders (especially Black/Brown Widows or Brown Recluse) be sure to use a repellant on your child  
  • A DEET based repellant is best (approved for age 2 months and up)
    • Be sure to read the follow the directions before applying  
• Long sleeves, long pants, and hats are helpful
• Minimize as much body exposure as possible  

What is the treatment for spider bites?

• Low-risk spider bites:
  • Gently clean the spider bite with soap and water
  • You can apply cool compresses  
  • You can use Tylenol or ibuprofen for help with the pain  
• Spider bites from a Black/Brown Widow or Brown Recluse:
  • Gently clean the area with soap and water
  • You can use Tylenol or Ibuprofen for help with pain  
  • Continue to monitor your child for symptoms and be sure to contact your child’s provider with any sign of worsening of symptoms

When to call your child’s provider:

• If you feel your child needs to be seen
• If your child’s symptoms are getting worse  
• Your child is in severe pain  
• Your child has a fever, vomiting, muscle cramping or abdominal pain
• The bite looks infected 

This publication was adapted from information within American Academy of Pediatrics Patient Education Handouts, UpToDate Guidelines and Healthychildren.org

Reviewed by: TT D.O, AR D.O. | 10/2023