Insect Bites And Stings And Spider Bites: Check Your Symptoms


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When to See a Doctor

You have answered Yes to:

Have you been bitten, stung, or had contact with a poisonous spider, scorpion, or puss caterpillar?


See significance of a bite, sting, or contact with a poisonous spider, scorpion, or caterpillar if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Note:
  • If you are not sure what bit or stung you, return to the Check Your Symptoms section.
  • If you have been bitten, stung, or had contact with a poisonous spider, scorpion, or caterpillar and you are unable to talk with your doctor immediately, go to a hospital emergency room for treatment. For black widow or brown recluse spider bites or scorpion stings, take the following steps and seek immediate care:
    • Remain calm. Too much excitement or movement increases the flow of venom into the blood.
    • Apply a cool, wet cloth to the bite or cover the bite with a cloth and apply an ice bag to the bite.
    • Do not apply a tourniquet. It may cause more harm than benefit.
Red cross with white cross logo

Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Have you been bitten by a black widow spider?

Yes

Have you been bitten by a brown recluse spider?

Yes

Have you been stung by a scorpion?

Yes

Have you had contact with a puss caterpillar (woolly slug)?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.



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Last updated: February 01, 2008
Author: Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By: William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Sean P. Bush, MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine and Envenomation Specialist
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

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.

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