First Aid & Emergencies

Understanding Insect and Spider Bites -- Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms of Insect and Spider Bites?

Most insect bites produce only minor irritation, with symptoms such as:

• Swelling at the site of the bite
• Itching or burning
• Local numbness or tingling

Bites of poisonous spiders and scorpions may produce these symptoms:

• Intense pain at the site of the wound
• Stiffness or joint pain
• Muscle spasms
• Abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting
• Fever or chills
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• A spreading, ulcerated wound or tissue death
• Dizziness, impaired speech or convulsions

An insect or spider bite can rarely cause a potentially fatal allergic reaction known as anaphylactic shock. Symptoms can include:

• Rapid swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or around the eyes
• Difficulty breathing
• Wheezing or hoarseness
• Severe itching, cramping, or numbness
• Dizziness
• A reddish rash or hives
• Stomach cramps
• Loss of consciousness

Call 911 About an Insect or Spider Bite If:

• You think you have been bitten by a poisonous spider or scorpion.
• You experience any of the symptoms of anaphylactic shock described above. This is a severe, possibly life-threatening condition. 

Call 911 or your emergency number immediately.