Most bites are NOT poisonous!
Most spider bites are not poisonous; many images are from a reaction or not acting soon enough.
Bite with a red line
You’ll see a red line extending from the bite area in some of our pictures. The red line usually shows lymphangitis when bacteria enter the lymphatic vessels near the bite. A bite with a red line can indicate an infection, and it’s important to seek medical attention if you notice one.
If left untreated, the infection can spread rapidly and cause serious complications, including sepsis. Therefore, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial if you notice a bite with a red line.
In addition to seeking medical attention, you can prevent infection by keeping the affected area clean and applying a topical antibiotic. It’s also important to avoid scratching or picking at the bite, as this can introduce bacteria into the wound and worsen the infection.
Bites with a red circle
The red circle can be a sign of erythema migrans, which is the classic rash associated with Lyme disease.
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted through an infected tick’s bite. The rash typically appears within 3-30 days of the bite and can be accompanied by flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and fatigue.
If left untreated, Lyme disease can cause serious complications, including joint pain, heart problems, and neurological issues. Therefore, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial if you notice a bite with a red circle.
In addition to seeking medical attention, you can also prevent Lyme disease by avoiding tick-infested areas, wearing protective clothing outdoors, and using insect repellent.
If you find a tick attached to your skin, it’s important to remove it promptly using tweezers and monitor the bite site for any signs of infection or rash.
Overall, a bite with a red line or circle is a serious matter that requires immediate attention. By seeking medical care promptly and taking steps to prevent infection, you can help ensure a speedy recovery and avoid potentially life-threatening complications.
Submit your spider bite photo!
Were you bitten? You are welcome to take a picture and send it to us to share, and we’ll take a look.
We also have a lot of pictures of scary spiders you can look at.
Note: Many pest control companies offer a bug guard that costs around $35 and may be purchased at your local hardware store; it’s a great way to help prevent bites like this from happening to you!
