Understanding Brown Recluse Spiders on Long Island

Understanding the Brown Recluse Spider in Long Island

While the venomous brown recluse spider is not native to Long Island, there have been isolated sightings and incidents of bites reported in the area. Learning to identify this spider and understanding how to avoid it and treat potential bites can help Long Island residents coexist safely.

Appearance and Behavior of the Brown Recluse

The brown recluse spider is usually between 6-20 mm (0.25-0.8 inches) in body length and has a dark brown coloring. It has six equal-sized eyes arranged in three pairs, rather than eight eyes like most spiders. A key identifying trait is the violin-shaped marking on its back, with the "neck" of the violin pointing toward the spider's bulbous abdomen.

Brown recluse spiders build irregular webs in secluded areas like woodpiles, sheds, garages, and attics. They are nocturnal and hunt alone at night. They are not aggressive, but may bite if trapped against skin. Despite their name, they do not appear to be reclusive or avoid humans.

Brown Recluse Spider Bite Symptoms

While many brown recluse bites are harmless, some can cause serious complications. They typically bite when trapped against bare skin, with common sites being the arms, legs, torso, and neck. Bites usually go unfelt initially and may not be noticed for 2-8 hours.

A small white blister usually forms at the bite site surrounded by a pale area. The tissue may harden and turn red, purple, brown, or black over the next few days. An open sore develops, which can grow to the size of a quarter. Flu-like symptoms like fever, chills, nausea, and fatigue may accompany the bite.

Dangers of Brown Recluse Venom

The venom of the brown recluse spider contains enzymes that break down cell membranes and tissues. In some cases, the bite forms a painful necrotic ulcer that takes months to heal, leaving deep scarring. The affected area may remain swollen and tender for weeks. Severe bites can damage blood vessels and organs.

While rare, serious complications can develop in some individuals after a brown recluse bite. These include seizures, kidney failure, blood abnormalities, and hemolysis (rupturing of red blood cells). Seek emergency medical care if you experience systemic symptoms or extensive skin damage.

Probability of Encountering Brown Recluses on Long Island

The native habitat of the brown recluse spider ranges across the south-central United States. So populations on Long Island would be unusual. However, a few sightings have occurred, likely from spiders hitchhiking inside boxes, furniture, and vehicles from southern states.

Verified brown recluse bites on Long Island are rare, with only a handful of cases medically documented. But it is possible that some bites have been mistaken for other conditions. Always seek medical evaluation for suspicious bite symptoms just in case.

Avoiding Brown Recluse Spider Bites on Long Island

While brown recluse sightings are highly uncommon on Long Island, you can take these precautions to reduce the risk of potential spider encounters:

Carefully Check Clothing and Belongings

When moving from southern states or acquiring pre-owned items, carefully inspect clothing, boxes, furniture, etc. Shake out garments and shoes before wearing. Look in crevices of wood furniture for signs of spiders.

Seal Points of Entry

Use caulk and weather stripping to seal cracks around windows, doors, pipes, vents, and foundations where spiders may enter. Check for gaps under doors and around windowsills.

Reduce Clutter and Organize Storage Areas

Get rid of unneeded boxes, papers, and other clutter where spiders could hide. Keep garages, attics, basements, and sheds tidy. Stack items neatly off the floor and away from walls.

Inspect Before Reaching Blindly

Check areas before placing your hands where you can't see, like behind furniture or under sinks. Inspect surfaces before leaning against them. Wear gloves when moving stored items.

Install Proper Lighting

Illuminate garages, crawl spaces, and closets where spiders may lurk. Use night lights in infrequently used rooms. Brown recluses avoid well-lit areas.

Keep Landscaping Trimmed

Prune vegetation touching the home's exterior. Move piles of wood and debris farther from the foundation. Eliminate hiding spots for spiders in your yard.

What To Do If You Are Bitten

If you suspect a brown recluse bite, take these immediate steps:

Wash the Wound

Gently clean the bite area with soap and water to help prevent infection. Do not scrub harshly or try to cut out the venom.

Apply a Cool Compress

Place a cool, damp cloth over the bite to help reduce swelling and discomfort. Avoid using ice directly on skin.

Elevate the Wound

Raise the affected limb higher than the heart if possible to slow venom spread. Lie down and try to stay calm.

Capture the Spider

If you were able to kill the spider, take it to the hospital for identification purposes. Otherwise, describe the situation in detail.

Seek Medical Attention

See a doctor promptly for evaluation and treatment. Quick medical care can help prevent serious damage and complications.

Report any potential brown recluse sightings or bites to local pest control and health departments so they can monitor the situation.

First Aid for Brown Recluse Bites

Until you can get medical care, follow these first aid recommendations:

Disinfectants

Apply an over-the-counter antiseptic containing iodine, benzalkonium chloride, or chlorhexidine. This may help curb bacterial growth.

Antihistamines

Take an oral antihistamine containing diphenhydramine or chlorpheniramine maleate for itching relief. Follow dosage on the label.

Hydrocortisone Cream

Apply a topical hydrocortisone product to reduce swelling, redness, and tenderness. Do not use on the open wound.

Pain Relievers

Use an over-the-counter pain medicine like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen for bite discomfort.

DO NOT

• Apply ice or cold compresses directly to skin
• Make any incisions at the bite site
• Use creams/ointments inside the open wound
• Use a tourniquet or tight bandage

Medical Treatment for Brown Recluse Bites

See a doctor promptly after a suspected brown recluse bite. Timely specialized care improves outcomes. Treatment guidelines include:

Wound Care

The bite will be cleaned and monitored for infection. Necrotic tissue may need surgical debridement. Promoting wound healing is a priority.

Tetanus Immunization

If not up-to-date on tetanus shots, the patient will need vaccination to prevent bacterial infection.

Antibiotics

Oral antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent bacterial growth and infection in the wound. Topical antibiotics on the lesion are not typically used.

Antihistamines

Oral antihistamines help manage itching and allergic reactions to the venom. Topical antihistamine creams may also be used away from the bite

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.