What does a brown recluse bite look like?
Brown recluse spiders live mainly in the south-central US. Most bites heal on their own, but some form a painful sore that needs medical care. Many suspected spider bites are actually skin infections.
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Check my biteWhat it looks like
- Little pain at first, then a red, painful area within hours
- A pale or purple center with a red ring
- Some bites form a blister or open sore over days
What to do
- Wash, apply cold, and raise the limb
- Save the spider if safely possible
See a doctor if you notice
- A darkening or growing sore
- Fever, rash, or dark urine
- Any bite in a young child
Trouble breathing, face or throat swelling: call 911 now.
Other bite guides
Educational information only, not a diagnosis. BiteID is in alpha testing.