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Insect Bites and Stings and Spider Bites - Check Your Symptoms

Step One
Step Two
Step Three

If you have the following, evaluate those symptoms first.

Yes

Have you used an epinephrine shot to treat an allergic reaction or been accidentally stuck with an epinephrine shot?

Yes

Have you been bitten, stung, or had contact with a poisonous spider, scorpion, or puss caterpillar?

Yes

Have you developed mild difficulty breathing or wheezing following a bite or sting?

Yes

Do you have hives following a bite or sting?

Yes

Do you have pain, burning, or numbness at the site of bite or sting?

Yes

Do you have tiny purple or red spots (petechiae) on your body following a bite or sting?

Yes

Do you have muscle spasms or muscle stiffness after a bite or sting?

Yes

Do you have a blister, painful sore, or purple discoloration at the site of a bite or sting?

Yes

Do you have new swelling?

Yes

Have you had multiple bites or stings, other than from mosquitoes?

Yes

Have 2 or more flu-like symptoms developed within minutes or up to 3 weeks of a bite or sting?

Yes

Do you think you have a skin infection at the site of a bite or sting?

Yes

Do you know or think you need a tetanus shot?

Other Symptoms to Watch For

If you have the following, evaluate those symptoms first.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 01, 2008
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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