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They are creepy, crawly and bite. They are spiders. For the most part, spider bites are relatively harmless. Most people's bodies respond with a large raised, circular area with a visible pinpoint mark in the middle which can grow in size and redness for several days. These bites can be quite painful and or itchy but are not life-threatening or severe, even if the sneaky little spider made a snack of the person, clustering bites in a straight line or snacking in a cluster of bumpy bites, maybe while the person slept. Still, for others, an allergic reaction can be much more severe. Knowing what to look for can save the life of a person having a severe allergic reaction.

WHO HAS ALLERGIC REACTIONS
Anyone can have a severe reaction to a spider bite. But, often babies and children are more prone to more severe allergic reactions to spider and insect venom. Some people are more prone to insect venom than others as well. If you know that you are more sensitive to certain allergens, it may be wise to be tested in a safe setting, like an allergist's office.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR
One of the first signs of an allergic reaction is hives and reddening of the skin. But, other first signs of a severe reaction can include coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing, including feeling of fullness in the mouth or throat. Look for swelling of the lips, tongue, ears, eyelids, palms of the hands, soles of the feet and mucous membranes as well. The bitten person may also feel lightheaded and confused, eventually going into shock. Nausea, diarrhea and stomach cramps may also be experienced. In the most severe reaction, anaphylaxis may occur and immediate medical attention will be needed.

WHAT SPIDERS CAN CAUSE THESE REACTIONS
There are really only a few spiders that can cause a toxic reaction in all people. These are the black widow spider, the brown recluse spider and the hobo spider. But, it is possible for a sensitive person to have a level of reaction to a common spider as well.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO
A person having a severe reaction to a spider bite should seek immediate medical attention. The reaction can be serious and fatal if not dealt with immediately. If the person is deemed to be a chronic sufferer from spider venoms, they may be prescribed a type of medication to keep on-hand to counteract the venom of subsequent spider bites. Most common spider bites in other people, however can be dealt with at home with cold compresses and itch creams if they are bothersome.

Learn more about this author, Rachel Mcclain.
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