Wolf Spider Bite: Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention, Diagnosis

A wolf spider’s bite resembles the bite of other spiders and hence it is difficult to identify. Generally, the spider bites can be identified distinctively from the other insect bites because of the two “pin-pricks” made by the spiders. These spiders do not bite unless they are provoked or frightened. Although, the wolf spider bite is not deadly it can be painful. Some are allergic to bite of the spiders and so may require to be treated by a doctor.

The typical reactions of a wolf spider bite are redness, pain, and itchiness that diminish over the short time period. The serious medical consequence of the bite of wolf spiders has not been noted though there is a lot of information stating that the wolf spiders can cause reactions that are similar to brown recluse spiders. When a wolf spider bites, it feels similar to a bee sting. The venom of these spiders is not poisonous to the humans and most of the individuals do not get allergic reactions. However, the seriousness of the wolf spider bite depends on the individual’s immune system and how it is dealt with.

The wolf spiders bite to defend themselves and to catch prey. They bite if they feel threatened or if it’s young one is in danger. The bite is uncomfortable and painful depending on the species of wolf spider that has bitten.

If you can catch the spider that bit you, it becomes easier to identify and diagnose. If you do not get a proper look then the diagnosis becomes difficult. If you see wolf spiders, it is easy to recognize them with two large eyes.

The first aid measures that must be taken at home for a wolf spider bite are the following:

• Wash your hands with an anti-bacterial soap before attending a wolf spider bite.
• Apply a cold towel or a cold pack to the affected area of the skin to reduce swelling and to prevent the venom from spreading.
• Use natural remedies such as Aloe Vera, Baking Soda, Apple cider vinegar, Witch Hazel, Chamomile, and Tea Tree Oil to reduce swelling, itchiness and encourage rapid healing from the wolf spider bite.
• Visit the doctor if you experience fever, nausea, muscle pain or vomiting.

The natural ingredients help to soothe the inflamed and itching skin and can reduce the redness and swelling. Proper monitoring and treatment prevent the complications arising out of the spider bite and the secondary infections.

Other methods of managing the condition are:

• Raise the bitten arm or the leg to reduce the swelling.
• Acetaminophen should be taken by the victim to reduce pain or aspirin to reduce the swelling also.

The wolf spiders generally do not infest the homes. However, to find one or two at home is not uncommon. One of the best and the convenient way to get rid of the wolf spiders is to make your home spider repellent. Natural spider repellents are good as they repel the spiders but do not cause harm to the family members or the pets. The best oils that can make easy spider spray repellent are Neem oil, Cinnamon oil, Citronella and Mint Oil.

Wolf spiders can be venomous but not poisonous. The venom is toxic but the spider’s venom does not affect you. It can cause allergic reactions, but will not be fatal. They are aggressive hunters, but generally run away if disturbed. When they are provoked, they may bite due to fear. They are mostly seen outside and occasionally enter the home when the weather gets cold. They are often mistaken as brown recluse spiders whose venom is very poisonous. If the symptoms of wolf spider bite get severe, seek medical treatment.