The brown recluse is a spider that is considered dangerous because it has a potentially fatal bite. The brown recluse lives in warm, dry, dark places such as closets, woodpiles and under sinks. A brown recluse bite begins with mild stinging and redness. Intense pain usually occurs approximately eight hours after the bite. The site of the bite develops a blister, sloughs off and leaves an enlarged wound. Infection of this wound can be fatal. Spider bites, including brown recluse bites, are initially treated with self-care measures prior to seeking medical attention.
Cleansing the Wound
Patients should cleanse the affected area immediately. Patients should use an antiseptic or antibacterial soap and warm water. The wound should be dried with a clean, dry towel.
Preventing the Spread of Venom
It is important for patients to prevent the spread of venom prior to visiting their doctor. After cleansing the wound, this can be accomplished by tying a bandage above the wound site, slowing the spread of the venom. Patients must take care not to tie the bandage too tightly because it can cut off the circulation to that area of the body. The Mayo Clinic advises elevating the wound site if it is on an extremity. Doing so helps to relieve pressure on the extremity if swelling is developing.
Cool Treatment
Cold compresses can be applied to relieve stinging, burning or painful sensations. To make a simple cold compress, saturate a clean towel with cold water or place ice in a clean towel and apply to the site. The University of Maryland Medical Center advises applying the compress for 10 minutes and leaving it off for 10 minutes, repeating until symptoms subside. Once the wound appears to be stabilized and pain or inflammation appears to be minimal, the patient should seek medical attention to have a formal examination. Patients with circulatory problems should limit their application of cool treatments, warns the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Getting Medical Attention
A patient who has been bitten by a brown recluse spider should seek medical attention by visiting the emergency room. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends capturing the spider and placing it in a container for a physician to review to confirm the spider type and course of treatment.
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