Spider-Man may have made millions dream of gaining superhuman strength, lightning-fast reflexes, and the ability to climb walls after a radioactive spider bite. But in the real world, a spider bite is far more likely to send you to a doctor's clinic than turn you into a superhero.
According to Apollo Hospitals, spiders are generally harmless, and very few have fangs long enough to enter the human skin. Only some spider varieties, such as the widow spiders, with about 30 species, and recluse spiders, with more than 140 species worldwide, cause serious issues like headaches, painful muscle cramps, and breathlessness. The good news? No spider bite has ever been proven to give a person extraordinary abilities.
What happens to the body after a spider bite?
Most spider bites cause redness, itching, mild swelling, and localised pain that settles within a few days.
As per the Mayo Clinic, bites from some spiders, such as widow spiders and recluse spiders, might cause serious signs and symptoms. Signs and symptoms of a widow spider bite can include:
Redness, pain and swelling around the bite can be observed, which can spread into the abdomen, back or chest.
Cramping or severe abdominal rigidity can be experienced, which is sometimes mistaken for appendicitis.
Nausea, vomiting, tremors or sweating
Interestingly, scientists have found that spider venom may one day help humans—not by creating superheroes, but by inspiring new medicines. As per the researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, snake, scorpion, and spider venom are most frequently associated with poisonous bites, but with the help of artificial intelligence, they might be able to help fight antibiotic resistance.
So, if a spider bites you, don't expect to swing between skyscrapers. Instead, keep an eye on your symptoms, follow basic first aid, and visit a health expert if the symptoms get worse.
