After Hours Doctor Spotlight on Spider Bites

Spider bites can be a serious problem in Australia. We have an ecosystem of potentially dangerous insects, and spiders are the most common in the average Australian home. Almost a quarter of the 40,000 spider species around the world residing here, you’re likely to come across different spiders inside your home or out and about. While most spiders are harmful, there are some species that can cause significant morbidity or even death. So the After Hours Doctor team has compiled a spotlight guide to help you understand the symptoms associated with venomous spider bites.

Is it a Spider Bite?

Most spiders secrete a venom that is used to paralyse prey. This venom can induce a natural response in humans, but the systematic response can vary from person to person. Some people have a greater sensitivity to spider venom, and the symptoms will vary according to the spider species. There are a few Australian spiders that can deliver a potentially harmful bite including the mouse, red back, white tailed and funnel web species.

The Common Symptoms of Spider Bites

As classified by RACGP, there are two primary types of spider venoms; neurotoxic that affects the nervous system and cytotoxic that causes tissue damage. This means that not every person will exhibit all symptoms; some may have one symptom while others may show a combination. The common symptoms you may see as a result of a spider bite include:

• Localised swelling

• Localised pain

• Redness and itching

• Vomiting

• Nausea

• Tachycardia

• Muscle spasms

• Excessive sweating

• Dilated Pupils

Typically, spider bites generate a local reaction that is marked by swelling, redness, itching and skin sensitivity. Some people may experience systemic effects including agitation, hypertension, cardiac effects or fever. If the swelling or pain increases, radiating away from the bite site in severity or you notice black tissue or necrosis around the area, you require urgent medical attention.

The Treatments

Most non venomous bites can be treated with medications from your local pharmacy. However, it is important to consult a medical professional before you begin any treatment. The After Hours Doctor team can assess with the assessment and local treatment of any spider bites. If the bite is from a venomous spider, you may require an antivenom from an emergency hospital.

Avoiding Spider Bites

The After Hours team has put together some tips to minimise the risk of exposure to spider bites.

• When working outdoors or in your garden, always wear shoes, long trousers, and gloves.

• Use a stick rather than your hand to inspect any suspect spider web

• Don’t leave your clothes on the floor. Insects and spiders love to hide, so if your items are on the floor, be sure to give them a good shake before you put them on.

• Instruct and educate your children on avoiding encounters with spiders.

If you are concerned about a spider bite or need help from an after hours doctor, Perth residents should call us. The After Hours Doctor team is available for help with any medical issue and would be happy to address any of your queries or concerns.

If you would like further guidance to improve your health and wellbeing from an after hours GP, Perth residents should call us.