Spider Bites In Bed

Dear Ask The Doctor: I beleive i got a spider bite a few nights ago while sleeping in my bed. It doesnt hurt me and doesnt seem to but one bumb. But a cluster of three. I dont know if i should get it checked out or if there is anything i can do for it ?

Dear Sara: The vast majority of spider bites are harmless.  The severity of a spider bite depends on factors such as the kind of spider, the amount of venom injected, and the age and health of the person bitten.  The majority of spiders have small fangs that are unable to inject past human skin so there is little chance of venomous poison injection.

A spider bite might cause no reaction at all, or it might result in varying amounts of itching, redness, stiffness, swelling, and pain.  The symptoms typical last for a few hours.  There is only a need to see a doctor if the symptoms experienced are unusually severe.  Most spider bites can be managed with ice for the swelling and a topical cream or ointment for the itching (do not scratch as this may cause a bacterial infection or break in the skin)

If you do not have any symptoms, a visit to the doctor is not necessary.