Redback spider bite symptoms

A redback spider bite can cause:

• pain
• redness
• sweating at the bite site

First aid for a redback spider bite

If you have been bitten by a redback spider:

1. wash the bite area with soap and water
2. use a cold pack for 15 minutes to relieve pain
3. see your doctor if you have bad symptoms

If your pain is very bad, go to your local hospital emergency department. Call 000

First aid for other spider bites

For all other spider bites:

• apply a cold compress to the bite site for 15 minutes
• reapply as needed

You can use an ice pack wrapped in a clean cloth. This treatment will help relieve your pain.

Don’t put the ice directly on your skin as it might cause a cold burn.

CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help.

The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self-care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000).

White tail spiders

White tail spiders aren’t considered dangerous to humans. They can cause:

• an initial burning pain
• swelling
• itchiness

Current evidence suggests that skin ulceration (necrotising arachnidism) isn’t commonly due to a white tail spider bite.

Anaphylactic shock

Some people occasionally have a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to being bitten by a spider. Anaphylactic shock is very serious and can cause death.

Symptoms of anaphylactic shock are:

• difficult or noisy breathing
• difficulty talking and/or a hoarse voice
• a swollen tongue
• persistent dizziness or collapse
• swelling or tightness in the throat
• being pale and floppy (young children)
• wheeze or persistent cough
• abdominal pain or vomiting

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation

In some cases, a person bitten by a spider may need cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

How can I prevent being bitten by a spider?

To prevent spider bites:

• leave spiders alone
• wear gloves when gardening
• relocate spiders in your home outside
• check your shoes before putting them on

Resources and support

You can learn more about spiders on the Australian Museum website.

St John Ambulance Australia has a first aid fact sheet for spiders on its website.

St John Ambulance Australia has a printable poster on first aid resuscitation procedures.

The Australian Bites & Stings app contains first aid instructions on what to do if bitten or stung by a venomous creature, and is free to download.

For more information on anaphylaxis, including setting up a personal action plan, visit the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy’s website.