Centipedes are common arthropods found in diverse environments, including homes. They possess venom, which they use to subdue prey and for defense.
Understanding Centipede Venom
Centipedes use venom, not poison; venom is injected, while poison is absorbed, ingested, or inhaled. They administer venom through specialized appendages called forcipules, modified front legs located just behind their head. These pincer-like structures grasp prey and inject venom to paralyze or kill their insect and worm prey.
Centipede venom contains a complex mixture of biologically active compounds, including proteins, peptides, and other small molecules. Specific components have been identified. The potency and exact composition of the venom vary significantly between different centipede species, influencing the effects of a bite.
What to Expect from a Centipede Bite
A centipede bite typically results in immediate, sharp pain at the site, often described as similar to a bee sting. Two distinct puncture marks may be visible. The affected area commonly develops localized redness, swelling, and tenderness, which can last from several hours to a few days.
Symptom severity depends on the centipede’s size and species, the amount of venom injected, and individual sensitivity. While most bites cause mild to moderate discomfort, some individuals might experience more widespread effects. Rarer systemic symptoms can include nausea, headache, dizziness, fever, chills, and localized lymph node swelling. Severe reactions like anaphylaxis are possible, particularly in individuals with allergies to other insect stings.
Immediate Care and When to Seek Help
Immediate first aid for a centipede bite involves cleaning the affected area gently with soap and water to prevent infection. Applying a cold compress or an ice pack can help reduce pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can alleviate discomfort, and antihistamines may help with itching or mild allergic reactions.
Medical attention is necessary in specific situations. Consult a healthcare provider if pain or swelling is severe and worsening, or if signs of infection develop (increasing redness, warmth, pus, or a foul odor). Bites on sensitive areas like the face or neck, or those sustained by very young children, the elderly, or immunocompromised individuals, also warrant medical evaluation. Systemic symptoms such as difficulty breathing, widespread rash, dizziness, muscle cramps, or chest pain require immediate emergency care.
Minimizing Encounters with Centipedes
To reduce centipede encounters, especially indoors, take several preventative measures. Centipedes prefer damp, dark, and secluded environments, often seeking shelter under rocks, logs, leaf litter, and in basements or bathrooms. Sealing cracks and openings in foundations, around windows, and doors can block their entry.
Remove outdoor hiding spots like leaf piles, grass clippings, and firewood. Reduce indoor humidity with dehumidifiers or fans. Controlling household pests also decreases their presence, as centipedes prey on insects. If found indoors, safely remove them using a broom and dustpan, ideally with gloves.