First Aid & Emergencies

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:

• 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.