Toxic effect of venom of black widow spider, accidental (unintentional) Save
ICD-10 code: T63.311
Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes
Toxic Effect of Venom of Black Widow Spider, Accidental (Unintentional)
The black widow spider is a venomous spider that is commonly found in the United States. It is easily recognizable due to its black body and red hourglass-shaped marking on its abdomen. Although these spiders are not aggressive and tend to avoid humans, they can bite if they feel threatened.
When a black widow spider bites a human, the venom can cause a variety of symptoms. The severity of the symptoms depends on the amount of venom injected and the individual's sensitivity to the venom. Some of the most common symptoms of a black widow spider bite include:
- Sharp pain at the site of the bite
- Muscle cramps and spasms, especially in the abdomen, back, and thighs
- Sweating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
In rare cases, a black widow spider bite can be fatal, especially in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. If you suspect that you or someone you know has been bitten by a black widow spider, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
There are several ways to reduce the risk of being bitten by a black widow spider. These include:
- Avoiding areas where black widow spiders are likely to be found, such as woodpiles, garages, and sheds
- Wearing gloves and long-sleeved shirts when working in areas where black widow spiders may be present
- Shaking out clothing and shoes before putting them on
- Using insect repellent
If you live in an area where black widow spiders are common, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of a bite and to seek medical attention if you suspect that you or someone you know has been bitten. With prompt medical treatment, most people recover fully from a black widow spider bite.
Overall, the toxic effect of venom from a black widow spider can be severe and potentially fatal if left untreated. It is important to take precautions to avoid being bitten and to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect that you or someone you know has been bitten.