Black widow
The black widow spider is a member of the Latrodectus (widow) family of spiders. It has a shiny, unique appearance, with a hourglass-shaped mark on its stomach. The body is around half an inch long. This species is commonly found in the warm Southern and Western United States. It lives in secluded regions, like boxes in the attic, woodpiles, and piles of fallen leaves. The male black widow is not dangerous. Only the female species is dangerous. Their bites usually feel like a little pinprick. In some cases, you may not feel anything at all. The bite usually leaves two marks on the skin.
Symptoms of the black widow bite may include:
- Pain and burning at the puncture site
- Headache
- Muscle cramping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Numbness
- High blood pressure
- Increased saliva and sweating
- Restlessness
It is important to get treatment on time for children and older adults. Your healthcare provider may recommend an anti-venom.