— Monkey Flower Ranch
Black Widow Bites
If you’re bitten by a black widow spider at the Monkey Flower Ranch, here’s what you should do:
Immediate Actions:
- Stay calm and try to remain still to slow the spread of venom
- Clean the bite area gently with soap and water
- Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in cloth to reduce pain and swelling
- If possible, try to capture or photograph the spider for identification (but don’t risk another bite)
Seek Medical Attention:
- Call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately – black widow bites can be serious and potentially life-threatening
- Don’t wait to see if symptoms develop, as they can worsen quickly
- Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for additional guidance
What NOT to do:
- Don’t cut the bite area
- Don’t try to suck out the venom
- Don’t apply heat to the bite
- Don’t take aspirin (it can increase bleeding risk)
Symptoms to watch for:
- Muscle cramps and spasms (especially in the abdomen)
- Severe pain at the bite site
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- High blood pressure
- Sweating and fever
- Headache and dizziness
Treatment: Medical professionals may administer antivenom (antivenin), pain medications, muscle relaxants, or other supportive care depending on the severity of symptoms.
Black widow bites are most dangerous for young children, elderly people, and those with compromised immune systems, but anyone bitten should seek immediate medical care. The sooner treatment begins, the better the outcome typically is.
