Spider Bites In Toddlers: Facts, Symptoms & Ways To Prevent

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As a parent, it is worrying about managing spider bites in toddlers. Since children are active and keep exploring new places, they may get these bites frequently; however, most spiders are not poisonous. If you notice a spider or insect bite growing rapidly or giving rise to sweating or rapid pulse symptoms, you should consult a healthcare provider. Moreover, you should also exercise caution to prevent bites from other insects and pests in children. The post discusses the symptoms of spider bites in children, their treatment, and ways to prevent them.

Facts About Spider Bites

Spiders are not insects, but they belong to the arachnida class of invertebrate animals.

They are not aggressive by nature, and they only bite when they feel they are in danger! All spiders contain some amount of venom to catch their prey. In most cases, spider bites do not lead to serious health complications (1).

Quick fact

Severe complications from spider bites are uncommon. While children may be more vulnerable, researchers highlight that fewer than three fatalities occur in the general population due to spider bites (10).

Spider Bite Symptoms In Toddlers

Unfortunately, parents often fail to understand if the scar or wound on a child’s skin is due to a spider bite. They may initially mistake the scars to be ant bites. If the toddler cannot speak or identify spiders, it can make detecting a spider bite even more difficult. You need to keep your eyes open for some commonplace symptoms of spider bites (1) (2):

Redness of the skin, itching, pain, and swelling are common symptoms of insect bites. However, you should be cautious if you find the insect bite mark on the toddler’s skin is spreading, or there is drainage from the spot. If the pain does not subside within a few days, that can be a cause of concern too. After being bitten by a venomous spider, the toddlers may exhibit signs of distress like breathing difficulty along with scars on his skin.

Experts from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC) indicate that in the US, two spiders, the brown recluse and the black widow, may cause harm to humans (3). Toddlers bitten by a brown recluse spider or a Black widow spider may suffer from scars on the skin. They may also exhibit the following symptoms in extreme cases:

• Stomach cramps
• Sweating
• Exhaustion
• Rapid pulse

Quick fact

The bite of a black widow spider may feel like an immediate, sharp, pin-like prick. The bite area may numb, and children may show excess salivation, nausea, and vomiting (1).

Dr. Heather Edgley, M.D., from East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Emergency Department, explains how parents can identify and manage spider bites in toddlers and children, “Parents may not always know when their child has been bitten by a spider, as it’s rare to see the offending insect. Instead, they might notice redness, pain, burning, or itching at the bite site. If the bite is small, there’s nothing to worry about. However, if a child experiences systemic symptoms like muscle cramps, abdominal pain, back pain, fever, malaise, or general discomfort, it may be time to seek medical care (i).”

How To Treat Spider Bites On Toddlers?

Here is the first aid you can give your toddler if they suffer from a spider bite (2) (4):

• Clean the spot of spider bite with cold water and an antiseptic solution.
• You may also apply an antibiotic ointment on the affected area. Some children may find relief from the stinging sensation with the application of ice on the bite.
• Instruct your toddler not to rub or itch the spot as it can lead to swelling and an increase in pain.
• You can ask your pediatrician to prescribe a painkiller for your toddler.
• If your child is suffering from severe discomfort, it is vital to take them to the hospital immediately.
• Although rare, certain spiders can be venomous; and if a person is bitten by a poisonous spider, they may require an antivenom prescribed by a doctor or healthcare specialist; however, it is crucial to note that the antivenom could be associated with certain adverse effects.

Dr. Edgley adds, “For smaller bites, parents can provide relief with cool or cold compresses, ice packs, or sometimes a warm compress. Over-the-counter medications like tylenol, ibuprofen, or benadryl can help with the discomfort or itching. If the bite is much bigger and there’s a lot more pain, especially in the case of a black widow spider bite, seeking medical care is essential.”

When To Seek Medical Care

Spider bites are usually harmless but may trigger severe reactions, particularly in young children or individuals with weakened immune systems. Seek immediate medical attention if your toddler has any of the following symptoms after a spider bite (5) (6):

• Intense pain at the bite site
• Signs of an allergic reaction or blistering
• Pain spreading to nearby areas
• Pain in the chest or abdominal area
• Swelling, redness, or itching around the bite
• Fever, chills, or breathing difficulties
• Headache, nausea, or vomiting
• Skin discoloration, such as a blue-gray mark or darkened bite area

Ways To Prevent Spider Bites In Toddlers

Prevention is always better than cure. Raising awareness is an important step to protecting your toddler from spider bites. 

Toddlers, out of playfulness and curiosity, can venture into areas where spiders form nests. These include attics, dusty staircases, etc. You cannot always keep an eye on them. However, you can ensure they wear shirts with long sleeves and socks while playing to protect them from spider bites. Experts suggest taking extra precautions by pulling up their socks and tucking their shirts into their pants to minimize the risk of bites (7). 

To keep spiders away, store firewood away from the house and use insecticides regularly. Guide your child to thoroughly shake and clean their shoes when taking them from the garage or storage area. Ensure spare spaces like the basement or attic are kept clean. Remember to store these insecticides and sprays away from the reach of children (1) (5).

Quick tip

Treating clothing and shoes with an insecticide called permethrin may help protect children from spiders (1).

Infographic: Common Symptoms Of Black Widow Spider Bite In Toddlers

It is essential for parents to identify spider bites in toddlers, as it will help ensure prompt treatment. To help you with that, we present some common signs of black widow spider bites in toddlers in the infographic below. Save and share it with parents of other toddlers too.

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Illustration: Spider Bites In Toddlers: Facts Symptoms & Ways To Prevent

Image: Dall·E/MomJunction Design Team

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Dr. Neema ShresthaMD

Dr. Neema Shrestha is a pediatrician with a special interest in the field of neonatology. She has an overall experience of five years working in the field. Currently working in Kathmandu, Nepal, she completed her MBBS from Kasturba Medical College, Manipal in 2008, Diploma in Child Health from D.

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