It may have only taken one radioactive spider bite for Peter Parker to become Spider-Man, but everyone else can rest easy: Spider bites are rare, and most of the time, they can be treated at home.

Most of us have been there. You feel a tiny pinch, maybe a quick sting, and then you think nothing of it. You slap at whatever just got you, maybe rub the spot for a second, and move on with your day.

Carrie Madormo, RN, MPH, is a health writer. She has over a decade of experience as a registered nurse, practicing in a variety of fields, such as pediatrics, oncology, chronic pain, and public health ...