It normally takes 6-8 weeks for a brown recluse spider bite to heal. A large sunken scar may persist that requires surgery to repair. Not every brown recluse bite results in ulcer formation. In rare cases systemic complications such as liver or kidney damage result. See your physician or emergency room as soon as you suspect a brown recluse spider bite.
Injuries develop in a similar manner but are much less severe.
Reactions, such as swelling, slow healing, and ulcerated sores around the bite site, are similar enough to be confusing. If you are bit-ten by a spider, ice and elevate the bite site. Seek medical attention if the symptoms persist or intensify. Physicians will often prescribe antibiotics to prevent secondary infections. Most bites will start to improve in a few hours to 2-3 days.