Black widows are typically considered the most venomous spiders in North America, according to "National Geographic." You can find them almost anywhere in the United States and North America, as well as some parts of Europe, Asia and Africa. If you suspect that your child has been bitten by a black widow spider, don't panic. No one has died from a black widow spider bite in the last 10 years in the United States, says the California Poison Action Line. However, you should watch for signs of a bite and seek medical attention if you suspect your child has been bitten.
Step 1
Look for evidence of a black widow near where your child was playing. Black widows tend to hide in dark, shady places, like underneath wood piles or in basements and garages. You can identify a spider as a black widow by examining its back; there will be a bright red hourglass pattern, says KidsHealth. Finding a black widow could alert you to the possibility of a bite.
Step 2
Ask your child to move his arms and legs around. Black widow bites can cause muscle aches and pains in the extremities. If your child cannot move easily, or winces in pain, he could have been bitten, suggests the UC Davis Calaveras County Cooperative Extension. Have your child breathe in and out several times and watch for trouble breathing or your child complaining about having trouble taking in air.
Step 3
Watch your child's behavior directly after what you may think was a bite. A child who has experienced a black widow bite may sweat, vomit, act anxious or weak, or complain of itchy skin, says the California Poison Action Line.
Step 4
Ask your child if she feels hot or cold. The chills are often a sign of a black widow bite, according to MayoClinic.com. She might shiver or sweat while still complaining of the cold. You might try to wrap her in a blanket while she still complains of feeling cold.
Step 5
Look for the bite site by examining your child's body. Exposed skin has the highest risk of experiencing a spider bite, so check uncovered feet, legs, arms and hands first. The black widow spider bite will look small, with swelling and numbness around the bite site, according to Merck Manuals. If you find a small prick-mark, press around it and ask your child if he can feel you pressing. If he can't, he likely is experiencing a bite. Take him to the doctor for proper cleaning and dressing.
