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Understanding Insect and Spider Bites -- Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms of Insect and Spider Bites?

Most insect bites produce only minor irritation, with symptoms such as:

  • Swelling at the site of the bite.
  • Itching or burning.
  • Local numbness or tingling.

Bites of poisonous spiders and scorpions may produce these symptoms:

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  • Intense pain at the site of the wound.
  • Stiffness or joint pain.
  • Muscle spasms.
  • Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
  • Fever or chills.
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
  • A spreading, ulcerated wound or tissue death.
  • Dizziness, impaired speech, or convulsions.

An insect or spider bite can rarely cause a potentially fatal allergic reaction known as anaphylactic shock. Its symptoms include:

  • Rapid swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or around the eyes.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Wheezing or hoarseness.
  • Severe itching, cramping, or numbness.
  • Dizziness.
  • A reddish rash or hives.
  • Stomach cramps.
  • Loss of consciousness.

 

Call Your Doctor About an Insect or Spider Bite If:

  • You think you have been bitten by a poisonous spider or scorpion.
  • You experience any of the symptoms of anaphylactic shock described above. This is a severe, possibly life-threatening condition. Call 911 or your emergency number immediately.

 

WebMD Medical Reference

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Reviewed by Varnada Karriem-Norwood, MD on March 22, 2012
© 2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

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