Spiders may seem scary, but as far as bug bites in children go, spider bites are pretty uncommon and rarely lethal. In fact, spiders usually like to keep to themselves and only bite if they’re frightened (arachnophobes, rejoice!). If your child is bitten by a spider, expect a reaction similar to a bee sting (like redness and swelling), and make her feel better with this advice for treating spider bites:
Treating spider bites in children
- Keep it clean. Wash the area carefully with soap and water several times a day until the bite heals.
- Head off infection. Apply an antibiotic ointment and keep your child’s hands as clean as possible.
- Ease any pain. If your child complains that the bite hurts or seems fussier than usual, an age-appropriate dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen will help (learn more about safe medicine for toddlers).
- Call the doctor if your child develops symptoms of infection (redness, swelling, pus, a warm feeling around the bite). Most spiders are harmless, but there are two that are poisonous: The brown recluse spider (which is small, oval, and has a violin-shaped mark on its back) releases venom that can cause swelling, changes in skin color, and a blister. The black widow spider has a shiny black body and an orange hourglass shape on its underbelly. Symptoms of a black widow spider bite include nausea, vomiting, chills, fever, and muscle aches. If your child has any of these symptoms — or you know that she’s been bitten — go to the emergency room right away.
Preventing spider bites in children
- Spider bites, just like other bug bites in children, can be avoided by showing extra caution outdoors. Your sweetie should wear shoes at all times when outside. Does she have a tiny green thumb? Make sure she wears gloves while she’s playing in the garden (a spider-friendly place).
- Insect repellent prevents most bug bites in children. You can use one containing up to 30 percent DEET or 10 percent picaridin (but don’t use either on infants under two months). Limit it to your child’s clothing and any exposed skin except his hands and face. If you aren’t sure if a particular insect repellent is okay for your child, ask your doctor to recommend a safe one. This should keep mosquito bites and tick bites at bay, too.