Which Animal Kills More Ohioans Than Any Other?

Krzysztof Niewolny / Unsplash

Other than a man being the most dangerous animal to other humans in Ohio, the Black Widow Spiders are the next dangerous animals. Here is all you need to know about the Black Widow spider, its symptoms, and how you can ease symptoms at home.

What is a Black Widow Spider?

Scientifically known as Latrodectus mactans and L. various, Ohio is home to the Southern and the Northern Black Widow.

The Southern Black Widow has a red hourglass mark on the underside and a shiny black globe-shaped abdomen. On the other hand, the Northern Black Widow may be brown or have red legs. The middle of the upper surface of its core has a row of red spots and two crosswise bars on the underside.

These spiders, although very dangerous, are not aggressive. They only bite human beings when they feel threatened. They are active at night and prefer dark crevices and corners.

Only the female Black Spiders are lethal and huge compared to the males. They eat the male after mating.

Symptoms of a Black Widow Spider bite

When bitten, you will feel a tiny pinprick that may lead to

• Cramping
• Severe muscle pain usually within 8 hours
• mild diaphragm paralysis, making breathing difficult
• Nausea
• Swollen eyelids
• Severe abdominal pain or cramping
• Weakness or tremors making it hard to move your legs
• Sweating excessively
• Rash and itching

However, if you suspect your child has been bitten, rush them to the emergency room immediately, as this bite is lethal on small children.

Tips to ease symptoms and prevent further infection

These are some things you can do to reduce the symptoms while at home.

• Use soapy water and wash the area.
• Place ice or a cold washcloth on the area
• Take Tylenol. It is an effective over-the-counter pain reliever,
• Elevate your leg or arm to avoid swelling if the bite is here.
• An antibiotic lotion or cream will help if applied to the bite
• Kill the spider and place it in a plastic bag, take it to the doctor so that they can be sure a black widow that bites you.

The doctor may have to do the following if the symptoms are severe.

• Give you stronger medicine or apply muscle relaxants.
• You may have to remain in the hospital so that they can observe you.
• You may get injected with antivenin, which neutralizes the black widow venom and monitors you for 8 to 12 days, as this antivenom causes many side effects.

Conclusion

Since Black widow spiders only bite when threatened, avoid disturbing them. Also, avoid fallen tree branches or stumps, woodpiles, abandoned houses, and dark, chilly places like garages, barns or sheds. Ensure you keep your storage species or areas clean and well lit.

https://www.healthline.com/health/black-widow-spider#treatments

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