House spiders are common in homes. Their presence can sometimes lead to questions about their behavior, particularly whether they bite. This article aims to provide factual information regarding house spider bites, helping to clarify common misconceptions and offer guidance on identifying bites and knowing when to seek medical advice.
The Truth About House Spider Bites
While house spiders can bite, incidents are uncommon and usually defensive. Most house spider bites are medically insignificant, often less severe than a mosquito bite, as their fangs are typically too small or weak to effectively penetrate human skin or inject venom. House spiders do not transmit diseases, unlike some other common household pests. The perception of frequent or dangerous spider bites is often exaggerated, as many unexplained skin irritations are mistakenly attributed to spiders.
Identifying Common House Spiders
The American house spider ( _Parasteatoda tepidariorum_ ) is frequently encountered, characterized by its small size, typically less than a quarter of an inch long, with a round abdomen. These spiders are usually gray or brown, sometimes displaying white markings, and construct messy, tangled webs often found in corners or less disturbed areas like basements and garages.
Funnel weaver spiders, also known as grass spiders, are another common indoor presence, particularly if they wander in from outdoor habitats. They are typically mottled brownish or grayish with longitudinal stripes and build distinctive funnel-shaped webs. Their size can range from about one-third to two-thirds of an inch when fully grown.
Cellar spiders, often called “daddy long-legs spiders,” are easily identified by their extremely long, thin legs and small, pale yellow-brown bodies. They prefer warm indoor environments and create loose, tangled webs in sheltered spots like ceiling corners. These spiders are distinct from harvestmen, which are also called “daddy long-legs” but are not true spiders and have a single body segment.
Recognizing a House Spider Bite
A typical house spider bite often manifests as a small, red, itchy bump, closely resembling a common insect bite. The pain is usually minimal or absent, sometimes described as similar to a bee sting. While spiders have two fangs, puncture marks are often not visible or may appear as a single red spot. The body’s reaction is generally localized, with mild swelling and redness that resolve within a few days. Differentiating a house spider bite from other insect bites can be challenging without observing the bite occur.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most house spider bites are harmless, certain signs warrant medical attention. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider if the bite area shows increasing redness, swelling, warmth, or if it begins to ooze pus, as these can indicate an infection. Severe pain that worsens over time, a spreading rash, or the development of an an open wound at the bite site are also reasons for concern. Systemic reactions, though rare, necessitate immediate medical evaluation; these include symptoms such as fever, chills, body aches, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.
For minor house spider bites, cleaning the area with mild soap and water is recommended. Applying a cool compress or ice pack to the bite for 15 minutes each hour can help reduce pain and swelling, and elevating the affected area is also beneficial. Over-the-counter pain relievers or antihistamines may be used to manage discomfort and itching.