The brown recluse spider is one of two most common poisonous spiders found in North America. The other is the black widow. According to MedlinePlus, the brown recluse spider is found most commonly in the southcentral states in the United States. Even though this is the most common area where the spider can be found, these poisonous spiders have also been located in several other places throughout the country. A bite from a brown recluse can bring on serious, life-threatening symptoms. Those most likely to have deadly symptoms are young children, elderly people and people with poor immune systems.
Burning, Pain or Itching at the Bite Area
DermNet NZ states that the initial bite from a brown recluse may remain unnoticed; however pain, burning and itching can develop approximately 2 to 8 hours afterward. The victim will notice two small marks where the bite took place, and that area will become irritated.
Bulls-eye Shaped Rash
Before a blister or ulcer erupts, the bite site will become a rash. The rash usually resembles a bulls eye, with the center being blue. The immediate outside ring of the blue center will be pale in color, with the outermost ring of the rash colored bright red. This rash can spread as the blue color turns black.
Ulcer or Blister that Turns Black
According to Drugs.com, a few days after the bite has occurred, a blister or ulcer will form around the area. The center of the blister will begin to darken and become black, increasing in growth the longer it is allowed to progress. This is caused by necrosis of the tissue, also known as tissue death. The cytotoxin in the recluse's venom attacks, kills the tissues around the bite and slowly spreads and rots the flesh.
Headache or Body Ache
The headache that occurs with the brown recluse bite is usually severe enough to be considered a migraine. The pain comes on within 2 hours of the bite and can last for several weeks after all other symptoms have disappeared. Headaches are usually treated with acetaminophen, ibuprofen or aspirin.
Fever
A fever signifies the presence of an intruder in the body. This is the natural way for the body to fend off illness. The reason for the fever with a brown recluse bite is because the body will send antibodies out to try and kill off the venom from the spider bite. They move quickly, causing the internal body temperature to rise.
