Dangerous & Deadly Spiders in Florida
Venomous Spider Bite Identification & Treatment for Black Widow, Brown Recluse
It’s not insane to think that the majority of humans hate spiders.
These creepy crawlers come in many different shapes and sizes, and always seem to strike fear into us without even physically coming close to us. Not to mention, the majority of spiders are essentially harmless and actually helpful to the environment.
Some spiders, however — especially those in the warmer climates, in states like Florida, Georgia, and Texas — should be feared and avoided for good reason. Commonly found in Florida, the black widow and brown recluse are two of the deadliest species of spider known to man. Injecting venom into their victims after biting, these Florida residing spiders will make you check twice before entering spider territory.
If you are unlucky enough to come into contact with either of these poisonous arachnids, here’s some helpful information to help you identify them, as well as how to treat a bite if necessary.
Black Widow Spider Basic Facts
Fairly easy to identify, the black widow spider is sure to make your skin crawl. Only the female black widow is dangerous to humans. Females have black, shiny, globe-shaped bodies equipped with a distinguishing red hourglass marking. Usually found in sheds, barns, basements and just about any structure that has been undisturbed for a long time, the widow spiders have frequently come into contact with humans
Black Widow Spider Bite Symptoms
These spiders often bite when trapped against human skin. This often occurs when reaching under an object where the widow spider is hiding, or when putting on clothing. Although a female widow bite can be lethal, today’s medicine makes them less dangerous.
Not painful at first, the venom injected from a black widow bite quickly spreads through your veins. Attacking the nervous system, the bite causes swelling, reddening, nausea, muscle spasms, and deep pain. In severe cases, the venom attacks the nervous terminals, making it hard to breathe and swallow. If left untreated, the venom can cause sweating, chills, fever, and paralysis.
Brown Recluse Spider Basic Facts
As its name suggests, the recluse spider is brown or tan in color and prefers to be left alone. Its distinguishing violin-shaped mark on the front half of its body is commonly used for identification. Found in out-of-the-way places like basements and attics, humans are less likely to encounter this spider. If it feels trapped, however, it will bite you and can deliver powerful venom similar to that of the black widow.
Brown Recluse Spider Bite Symptoms
With symptoms caused by the bite of a brown recluse varying according to the age of the victim, the bites are more dangerous in kids, young adults, and the elderly.
At first, the area surrounding the bite becomes swollen and later changes the skin to appear red and hardened. Symptoms such as fever, shivering, nausea, and vomiting also occur. Eventually, the affected area grows to an ulcer. Causing deep pain for the victim, ulcers have dry bottoms, blue or gray borders, and cause reddish skin around the surrounding area.
Black Widow & Brown Recluse Spider Bite Treatment
If you suspect you have been bitten by either of these spiders, quickly clean the wound area with soap and water, then seek medical treatment from a hospital. Avoid doctor’s offices or urgent care centers, as they are not usually equipped to deal with these types of injuries. You will most likely need antivenin and narcotic pain relievers only available in a hospital setting. If possible, bring the spider to the hospital so the physician can identify the spider and give a proper diagnosis
If you need to remove these poisonous spiders in your home, or just want to make sure there are none, contact us for a free inspection today.