After a venomous spider bite, what is a critical symptom to monitor for?

After a venomous spider bite, monitoring for increasing pain that worsens over time is crucial. This symptom can indicate a variety of serious conditions, such as the progression of tissue damage or a systemic reaction to the venom. The nature of spider venom may lead to necrosis or other significant biological responses in the body, which can result in escalating pain. Observing this symptom can help responders assess the severity of the bite and determine the appropriate course of action, including whether to seek immediate medical treatment.

Local redness may be present initially but is not as critical as progressively worsening pain, which can signify a more severe reaction. Rapid heart rate can occur but is more indicative of a systemic response rather than the specific localized effects of the bite itself. Increased appetite is typically not associated with spider bites and therefore does not serve as a critical symptom to monitor in this context.