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First Aid: Redback Spider Bite First Aid Treatment
Author : Chris Le Roy
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Submitted : 2011-12-27 22:32:00 Word Count : 966 Popularity: 0
Tags: redback spider bite, first aid for redback spider, redback spiders
For natives, the Redback spider is somewhat of an Australian icon. For visitors, it is an intriguing looking spider. Whether you live in Australia or are visiting on vacation, you need to know that the Redback spider is not only dangerous, it's in abundance. This means that yes, there is a good chance you will encounter one at some point.
Understanding the Redback Spider
These spiders make their homes pretty much everywhere in the country. They prefer shaded environments like outhouses, under wood piles, in the crevices of outdoor tables and in roofs of many homes.
As the name suggests, the Redback spider is one of the most easily recognizable spider species for its significant red mark that it displays across the back of its body. The females are the largest sex with the body measuring at about 1 cm while males are considerably smaller and a lighter brown in color with the shape of an hourglass on their underside.
Redback spiders are so powerful and aggressive, they are known to kill and feast on larger prey such as lizards. It is the female who is responsible for the dangerous human bites in Australia. Most males and juveniles lack venom but can still inflict an uncomfortable bite.
If you think you're void of encountering one because you don't spend much time in the wild, think again! Redback spiders love to weave their web as well as a nice silk cocoon for their young to be born right inside your home where they'll be protected from outside elements.
Signs
Anyone living in or visiting Australia needs to be aware of Redback spider bite signs:
- The site of the bite typically causes a great deal of pain and may be red or swollen.
- Many individuals will experience hallucinations shortly after a bite occurs.
- The person may quickly get a fever and begin sweating heavily, especially at the site of the bite.
- The glands in some individuals will begin to swell.
- Vomiting, nausea and abdominal pain may become present.
- The individual may experience an elevated blood and pulse rate.
- Many individuals will display or feel signs of muscle weakness.
First Aid Treatment
If you know or even think that there is a chance that you or someone else has suffered a Redback spider bite, emergency medical treatment is crucial. There is a Redback anti-venom available in Australian hospitals that may be needed.
- Apply a cold compress to the area to minimize the pain and reduce swelling.
- Keep the individual calm and relaxed by reassuring them.
- Monitor and record their vital signs including respiration and pulse rate so you can provide the paramedic with these figures.
- Call for a paramedic or ambulance by dialing 000.
- Make sure the individual receives medical attention so they can be given the anti-venom.
Author's Resource Box
Chris Le Roy is the owner of One-on-One Professional Business Training and his company provides first aid courses through out Queensland. He offers group First Aid Courses Brisbane and First Aid Training in Townsville.
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