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Tarantula spider

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Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Arthropods, basic features
Arthropods, basic features
Arachnids, basic features
Arachnids, basic features

Definition    Return to top

This article describes the effects of a tarantula spider bite.

Poisonous Ingredient    Return to top

The venom of tarantulas found in the United States is not considered dangerous but may cause allergic reactions.

Where Found    Return to top

Tarantulas are found wild across the southern and southwestern regions of the United States, and are also kept as pets throughout the country.

Symptoms    Return to top

Home Care    Return to top

Place ice (wrapped in a washcloth or other suitable covering) on the site of the sting for 10 minutes and then off for 10 minutes. Repeat this process. If patient has circulatory problems, decrease the time to prevent possible damage to the skin.

Before Calling Emergency    Return to top

Determine the following information:

Poison Control    Return to top

They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses.

The patient should be taken to an emergency room for treatment if they show signs of an allergic reaction.

If possible, bring the spider to the emergency room for identification.

What to Expect at the Emergency Room    Return to top

The symptoms will be treated.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Death in a normally healthy individual is uncommon. Recovery usually takes about a week

Update Date: 2/13/2006

Updated by: Eric Perez, M.D., Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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