When should I see a doctor about a spider bite?
Bad spider bites are not common in the UK. They can occur in countries you may visit.
- Severe pain. You have severe pain at the bite site
- Growing wound. The bite site is growing
- Breathing or swallowing problems. You have trouble breathing or swallowing
- Redness. The bite site has spreading redness or red streaks
- Dangerous spider. You were bitten by a known dangerous spider, such as a black widow or brown recluse
- Unsure of spider. You’re not sure if the spider was dangerous
- Symptoms worsen. Your symptoms get worse or don’t improve within a few days
- Infection. You have symptoms of an infection, such as pus, increasing pain, swelling, or redness
- Allergic reaction. You’ve had a serious allergic reaction to an insect bite or sting before.
You should also call 999, or got to A&E, if you experience wheezing, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea after a bite.
