Brown recluse spiders live in dark, warm places such as attics, garages, closets, and basements. They are found in the Midwestern and Southeastern parts of the United States. Bites from a brown recluse spider can result in redness, blistering, and skin necrosis (skin death) around the bite. The bites are often painless, but severe pain can result at the site after several hours, sometimes accompanied by muscle aches, fever, nausea, and vomiting. In rare cases death has occurred.

If you are bitten by a brown recluse spider, apply cool compresses, take acetaminophen for the pain, and see your doctor immediately. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics and an antihistamine, and may remove dead tissue if it develops. If possible, bring the spider in a small glass jar for the doctor to examine. Many spiders are brown, but not every brown spider is a brown recluse spider.