Treatment

Most spider bites usually heal on their own in about a week. A bite from a recluse spider takes longer to heal and sometimes leaves a scar.

First-aid treatment for spider bites includes the following steps:

• Clean the wound with mild soap and water. Apply an antibiotic ointment three times a day to help prevent infection.
• Apply a cool compress over the bite for 15 minutes each hour. Use a clean cloth dampened with water or filled with ice. This helps reduce pain and swelling.
• If possible, elevate the affected area.
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever as needed.
• If the affected area is itchy, an antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or certirizine (Zyrtec), might help.
• Observe the bite for signs of worsening or infection. You might need antibiotics if the bite develops into an open wound or becomes infected.

For pain and muscle spasms, your doctor might prescribe pain medicine, muscle relaxants or both. You might also need a tetanus shot.

Black widow antivenom

If a black widow bite is causing severe pain or life-threatening symptoms, your doctor might recommend antivenom, which is usually given through a vein (intravenously). Symptoms usually ease within about 30 minutes of receiving the antivenom. Antivenom can cause serious allergic reactions, so it must be used with caution.