How does the black widow kill humans?

sarahcateh

The black widow spider is hardly ever lethal, but the deaths that occur are due to asphyxiation. The venom is a neurotoxin and can interfere with nerve impulses to muscles. http://kaston.transy.edu/widow.html Apr 12 10, 7:33 PM

star_gazer

Although death is rare, the black widow bites humans. The severity of an individual�s reaction to the black widow spider bite depends on the area of the body bitten, amount of venom injected, and their sensitivity to the venom. The venom travels in the bloodstream throughout the body and acts on the nervous system, causing varying degrees of pain. Some people report very intense pain. There typically is no necrosis (sloughing) of tissues and no conspicuous swelling. The bite of a black widow spider initially may go unnoticed, but some people report a short stabbing pain. At first, there may be slight local swelling and two faint red spots, which are puncture points from the fangs. Pain soon begins and usually progresses from the bite site to finally localize in the abdomen and back. Severe cramping or rigidity may occur in the abdominal muscles. Other symptoms may include nausea, profuse perspiration, tremors, labored breathing, restlessness, increased blood pressure, and fever. Symptoms often diminish after a day or so and cease after several days. Serious long-term complications or death are very rare. http://www.ihavepest.com/Black%20Widow%20Spider,%20HYG-2061A-04.htm Apr 12 10, 7:36 PM