Common House Spider Bite: Is it Poisonous? Debunking Myths & Facts

House spiders are common indoor companions that we encounter frequently. These eight-legged creatures often spark fear and concern, especially when it comes to the potential danger of their bites. However, it’s important to know that not all spider bites are poisonous and many house spiders are unlikely to cause major problems for humans.

The American house spider is a typical cobweb spider that can be found lurking indoors. Interestingly, this spider is relatively harmless and often incapable of biting humans, even when provoked. While spider bites can induce various symptoms, ranging from itching to severe pain, bites from common house spiders are rarely a significant cause for concern.

Venomous spiders, such as the black widow and brown recluse, do pose a risk to both outdoor and indoor workers. However, these spiders are less common and require a level of caution that goes beyond what’s necessary for the average house spider. So, while it’s essential to stay vigilant for dangerous spiders, rest assured that most common house spiders are non-threatening in terms of their bites.

Common House Spider Bite

Identifying the Bite

A common house spider bite can be identified by its appearance. The bite may have:

• Redness
• Small swelling
• No significant pain or harmful effects

Associated Symptoms

Symptoms associated with common house spider bites are generally mild or non-existent. However, some individuals might experience:

• Itching or rash
• Slight pain or discomfort

To summarize, common house spider bites are not poisonous or dangerous, and symptoms are typically mild or non-existent. These bites tend to cause redness and minor swelling, but should not be a cause for concern.

Is It Poisonous?

Venoms of Common House Spiders

Common house spiders are generally not considered venomous. Although their bites may cause minor symptoms such as itching or rash, they are mostly harmless to humans and have small amounts of venom. For example, the American house spider is a typical cobweb spider found indoors, which is grayish to brownish and mostly harmless.

Venomous Spiders

• Black widow spider
• Brown recluse spider

Non-Venomous Spiders

• Common house spider
• American house spider

Risk of Venomous Spiders

However, there are two dangerous venomous spiders in the United States: the black widow spider and the brown recluse spider¹. Their bites can cause severe symptoms and, in rare cases, even death².

It is essential to seek medical attention if you believe you have been bitten by either a black widow or brown recluse spider.

Nonetheless, spider bites are relatively rare, so the risk of encountering a venomous spider is quite low³. Keep in mind that most spiders, such as common or American house spiders, are not dangerous and may even help control other pests in your home.

Symptoms of Spider Bites

Mild Symptoms

Common house spider bites are usually not poisonous and often result in mild symptoms. These can include:

• Itching or rash: A minor irritation may occur at the site of the bite.
• Red bump: The bite may appear as a small, red bump on the skin, similar to a mosquito bite.
• Pain: Some mild pain might be experienced around the bite area.

Severe Symptoms

Although house spider bites are generally harmless, some individuals may experience more severe reactions due to other factors such as an allergy. In rare cases, these severe symptoms can include:

• Nausea and vomiting: Feeling nauseous and potentially vomiting.
• Headache: Experiencing a headache after being bitten.
• Fever and chills: A high temperature and shivering can be signs of a more severe reaction.
• Difficulty breathing and weakness: The most concerning symptoms include trouble breathing and feeling weak overall.

While house spider bites are usually not a cause for concern, it is still crucial to monitor the symptoms and seek medical treatment if they become severe. Moreover, it’s worth noting that other venomous spiders, like the brown recluse and black widow, have bite symptoms that could be much more severe. Here’s a comparison table of the mild and severe symptoms:

Treatment for Spider Bites

Home Remedies

If you have been bitten by a common house spider, it’s important to know that their bites are usually not poisonous. However, you should still treat the bite to reduce discomfort and avoid infections. Start by:

• Cleaning the area: Wash the bite with soap and water to clean the wound and remove any possible bacteria.
• Using an ice pack: Applying ice to the bite can help reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation. For example, you can use a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel as an ice pack.
• Taking over-the-counter medications: Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain, while antihistamines can reduce itching and swelling.

It’s essential to monitor the bite for any signs of infection or an allergic reaction. If you notice the following symptoms, consult a medical professional immediately:

• Redness and swelling that do not improve after a few days
• Pus or discharge from the bite
• Fever or chills
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

When to Seek Medical Attention

In some cases, a spider bite might require more than just home remedies. It’s crucial to seek medical attention if:

• You suspect the spider is dangerous or poisonous like a brown recluse or black widow.
• Symptoms worsen, or you experience numbness, intense pain, or lesions around the bite area.
• There’s a risk of anaphylaxis, a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction.

When seeking medical attention, it’s helpful to identify the spider if possible. This information will help healthcare professionals decide whether further treatment, like antibiotics or hospitalization, is necessary. Additionally, if spiders are a recurring issue in your home, you might need to consider contacting a pest control service to help manage the situation.

Prevention of Spider Bites

Reducing Spider Presence in Your Home

• Keep your home clutter-free: Regularly clean and organize your home, paying special attention to corners, curtains, and other areas where spiders might hide.
• Pest control: Regularly inspect your home for signs of spider infestation and take necessary pest control measures, like using sticky traps or chemical treatments.

Personal Protective Measures

When handling items in storage spaces or areas with a potential spider presence, take the following precautions:

• Wear a hat and long sleeves: Covering your head and arms reduces the chances of spider bites on exposed skin.
• Be cautious: Always check items before picking them up, especially if they have been stored in dark, undisturbed spaces.

Common House Spider vs. Venomous Spider

It’s worth mentioning that although common house spiders are not poisonous, certain venomous spiders like the brown recluse can be found in some areas of North America. Their bites can result in necrosis and joint pain. However, these spiders are rare, and most spider encounters in your home are with harmless species. By following the prevention tips mentioned above, you can minimize the risk of spider bites and keep your home spider-free.