From the Guidelines
To treat spider mite bites, apply a cold compress to the affected area for 10-15 minutes to reduce swelling and itching, and consider over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents for pain relief, as recommended by the 2024 American Heart Association and American Red Cross guidelines for first aid 1. The treatment of spider mite bites focuses on alleviating symptoms and preventing secondary infections.
- Apply a cold compress to the affected area for 10-15 minutes to reduce swelling and itching.
- Over-the-counter antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) can help control itching; follow package dosing instructions.
- Apply calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream (0.5-1%) directly to bites 2-3 times daily to soothe irritation.
- Keep the area clean by washing with mild soap and water to prevent infection.
- Avoid scratching to prevent secondary infections. According to the 2024 American Heart Association and American Red Cross guidelines for first aid 1, emergency services should be called if a person bitten by a spider or stung by a scorpion develops symptoms throughout the body such as difficulty breathing, muscle rigidity, dizziness, or confusion. It's essential to seek medical care if pain extends beyond the site of the bite/sting, becomes severe, and is not controlled by over-the-counter pain medications; if an open wound develops; or if the person experiences symptoms throughout the body, as stated in the guidelines 1. The guidelines also suggest that over-the-counter acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents can be used to alleviate local pain from scorpion stings 1. Most spider mite bites resolve within a few days with these treatments. If you experience severe reactions like spreading redness, increasing pain, fever, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately, as recommended by the guidelines 1.
From the Research
Spider Mite Bites Treatment
There are no research papers directly related to the treatment of spider mite bites. However, some studies discuss the treatment of spider bites and insect bites in general.
- The treatment of brown recluse spider bites remains controversial, with little evidence of the effectiveness of various treatment options 2.
- A review of the management of simple insect bites found a lack of evidence for the efficacy of available treatments, including antihistamines and topical corticosteroids 3.
- A study on poisonous spiders and their treatment discussed various syndromes caused by spider bites, including loxoscelism, latrodectism, and funnel web spider syndrome, but did not specifically address spider mite bites 4.
- An overview of spider bites and their treatment mentioned that most spider bites do not require treatment, but some species can cause necrotic wounds and occasionally death 5.
- A review of spider bite wound care and treatment options discussed traditional and advanced treatment options, including the use of antibacterial foam dressings and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, but did not specifically address spider mite bites 6.