A camel spider is not considered as a poisonous species. The ideal way to identify a bite from this spider is to see if it caused one. In most cases, it leaves behind an alarming wound.
What are the usual signs?
If an individual sustained a camel spider bite, the following signs are likely present:
- Severe pain – a camel spider bite is usually severe since it has pincers the same as a crab.
- Swelling – due to the trauma to the adjacent tissues, swelling is expected as a general inflammatory response of the body.
- Bleeding – the bleeding from a camel spider bite ranges from minimal to significant but usually based on the size of the spider and location of the bite.
There are cases in which the symptoms of a bite are serious which is due to an allergic reaction.
Management of a camel spider bite
Since the camel spider is not poisonous, the wound can be managed in the same manner as any wound. Remember though that there is a high risk for infection to occur. Some of the measures that can be done in caring for a camel spider bite include:
- Cleanse the bite site using mild soap and water. Make sure that the site is thoroughly cleaned to lower the risk for infection.
- Make sure that the site is dry.
- Dab on an antibiotic cream.
- Cover the site of the bite with gauze bandage. The bandage should be changed daily and checked for any indications of infection. If signs of infection are present, a doctor should be seen.
- The discomfort and swelling can be alleviated by applying a cold compress or ice pack wrapped with cloth for around 15 minutes.
- An over-the-counter antihistamine can be taken if an allergic reaction occurs.
- For pain relief, an over-the-counter pain medication can be given.
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on camel spider bite is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage this type of bite, register for a first aid and CPR course with Toronto First Aid.