# Spider bites Signs & symptoms General symptoms

sharp pain at bite site

profuse sweating

nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.

Additional symptoms of a Funnel-Web or Mouse spider bite

copious secretion of saliva

muscular twitching and breathing difficulty

small hairs stand on end

numbness around mouth

copious tears

disorientation

fast pulse

markedly increased blood pressure

confusion leading to unconsciousness.

Additional symptoms of a Red-back spider bite

intense local pain which increases and spreads

small hairs stand on end

patchy sweating

headache

muscle weakness or spasms.

Possible signs and symptoms of other spider bites

burning sensation

swelling

blistering.

What to do First aid for Funnel-web / Mouse spider: pressure bandage & immobilise 1 Follow DRSABCD. 2 Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. 3 Lie the patient down and ask them to keep still. Reassure the patient. 4 If on a limb, apply an elasticised roller bandage (10–15 cm wide) over the bite site as soon as possible. 5 Apply a further elasticised roller bandage (10–15 cm wide), starting just above the fingers or toes and moving upwards on the bitten limb as far as can be reached.

Use clothing or other material if an elasticised roller bandage is not available.

Apply the bandage as firmly as possible to the limb. You should be unable to easily slide a finger between the bandage and the skin.

6 Immobilise the bandaged limb using splints. 7 Keep the patient lying down and completely still (immobilised). 8 Write down the time of the bite and when the bandage was applied. If possible, mark the location of the bite site (if known) on the skin with a pen, or photograph the site. Do not wash venom off the skin or clothes because it may assist identification. 9 Stay with the patient until medical aid arrives.

First aid for Red-back and other spider bites 1 Wash the injured site with soap and water. 2 Apply a cold pack to the bitten or stung area for 15 minutes and reapply if pain continues. 3 Seek medical attention if the patient develops severe symptoms.