The black widow spider (Latrodectus mactans) has a shiny black body with a red hourglass-shape on the belly area. The bite of a black widow spider is poisonous.
Poisonous Ingredient:
The venom of the black widow spider contains poisonous chemicals that make people sick.
Where Found:
Black widows are found throughout the United States but predominantly in the South and West. They are usually found in barns, sheds, stone walls, fences, woodpiles, porch furniture, and other outdoor structures.
Symptoms:
This first symptom is usually pain similar to a pinprick. This sensation is felt when the bite is actually made. Some people may not feel it. There may be minor swelling and redness.
Fifteen minutes to an hour later, a dull muscle pain spreads from the bite area to the entire body.
If the bite is on the upper body, you will usually feel most of the pain in your chest.
If the bite is on your lower body, you will usually feel most of the pain in the abdomen.
Pregnant women may have contractions and go into premature labor.
Review Date: 10/29/2007
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Poisons
