| Definition: |
Poisoning by a bite from the funnel-web spider.
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| Poisonous Ingredient: |
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| Where Found: |
- funnel-web spider and related species
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| Symptoms: |
- body as a whole
- chills
- collapse
- joint pain
- muscle spasms (fasciculations)
- numbness of mouth and lips
- heart and vessels
- high blood pressure
- rapid heart rate
- respiratory
- eyes, ears, nose, and throat
- skin
- redness around the site of bite
- sweating excessive
- gastrointestinal
- nausea and/or vomiting
- diarrhea
- nervous system
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| Home Treatment: |
Call the Poison Control center for guidance. The standard procedure is to apply a firm pressure bandage over the bite, and immobilize the affected limb, if possible.
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| Before Calling Emergency: |
Determine the following information:- the patient's age, weight, and condition
- the identification of the insect if possible
- the time when the bite occurred
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| Poison Control, or a local emergency number: |
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses.
If possible, bring the insect to the emergency room for identification.
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| What to expect at the emergency room: |
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| Expectations (prognosis): |
Death in an otherwise healthy person is uncommon, but can occur due to laryngeal spasm. Recovery usually takes about one week.
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