Black Widow Spiders

Signs and Symptoms of a Bite

The initial bite may feel like a pin prick, which will go unnoticed. At first, victims experience little or no visible signs of the bite such as swelling. A red circular mark may appear about six hours after the bite.

The initial symptoms may be progressive aching sensations, with muscle pain at the bite site spreading to the lower back, thighs and limbs. Symptoms often last up to 36 hours and lingering effects may last for several weeks.

Treatment

Call the Banner Poison and Drug Information Center at 800-222-1222 to determine if the victim can be managed at home or will require treatment by a physician or hospitalization. Severe cases may require antivenin treatment.