Toxic reaction to insect or spider venom

Content provided by Healthwise

Toxic reaction to insect or spider venom

A toxic reaction occurs when insect or spider venom acts like a poison in the body. This type of reaction can occur from one bite or sting from a highly toxic insect or spider, or from multiple bites or stings from insects or spiders not normally considered poisonous.

Symptoms of a toxic reaction vary depending on the insect or spider, the toxicity of the venom, and the amount of venom injected. Most often symptoms lessen or go away within 48 hours. Although hives and difficulty breathing may occur in an allergic reaction, these symptoms will not occur in a toxic reaction. It is possible to have both a toxic reaction and an allergic reaction at the same time.

Signs and symptoms of a toxic reaction may include:

Nausea or vomiting.
Diarrhea.
Fever.
Weakness.
Lightheadedness.
Rapid swelling at the site of the sting.
Muscle spasms.
Headache.
Drowsiness.
Fainting (syncope).
Uncontrollable jerking movements (seizures).

A toxic reaction may lead to heart rhythm problems, shock, and death.

Credits

Print Email SHARE

Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Harold S. Nelson, MD - Allergy and Immunology
Last Updated	January 22, 2008

Print Email Twitter Facebook MySpace AIM More

Last updated:	January 22, 2008
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Harold S. Nelson, MD - Allergy and Immunology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.