Snake bites occur when a snake bites the skin. They are medical emergencies if the snake is venomous. Venomous animals account for a large number of deaths and injuries worldwide. Snakes alone are estimated to inflict 2.5 million venomous bites each year, resulting in about 125,000 deaths. The actual number may be much larger. Southeast Asia, India, Brazil, and areas of Africa have the most deaths due to snakebite.
Snake bites can be deadly for children if not treated quickly, because of their smaller body size.The right antivenom can save a person's life. Getting to an emergency room as quickly as possible is very important. If properly treated, many snake bites will not have serious effects.
Most species of snake are harmless and their bites are not life threatening.
Venomous snake bites include bites by any of the following
Cobra
Copperhead
Coral snake
Cottonmouth (water moccasin)
Rattlesnake
Most snakes will avoid people if possible, but all snakes will bite as a last resort when threatened or surprised. If you are bitten by any snake, treat it seriously.
Symptoms of snakes bites depend on the type of snake, but may include
Bleeding from wound, Blurred vision, Burning of the skin, Convulsions, Diarrhea, Dizziness, Excessive sweating, Fainting, Fang marks in the skin, Fever, Increased thirst, Loss of muscle coordination, Nausea and vomiting, Numbness and tingling, Rapid pulse, Tissue death, Severe pain, Skin discoloration, Swelling at the site of the bite, Weakness.
First Aid
1. Keep the person calm. Reassure them that bites can be effectively treated in an emergency room. Restrict movement, and keep the affected area below heart level to reduce the flow of venom.
2. Remove any rings or constricting items, because the affected area may swell. Create a loose splint to help restrict movement of the area. If the area of the bite begins to swell and change color, the snake was probably venomous.
3. Monitor the person's vital signs, temperature, pulse, rate of breathing, and blood pressure if possible. If there are signs of shock (such as paleness), lay the person flat, raise the feet about a foot, and cover the person with a blanket.
4. Get medical help right away.
5. Bring in the dead snake only if this can be done safely. Do not waste time hunting for the snake, and do not risk another bite if it is not easy to kill the snake. Be careful of the head when transporting it a snake can actually bite (from a reflex) for several hours after it's dead.
Follow these precautions
Do NOT allow the person to become over exerted. If necessary, carry the person to safety.
Do NOT apply a tourniquet.
Do NOT apply cold compresses to a snake bite.
Do NOT cut into a snake bite with a knife or razor.
Do NOT try to suck out the venom by mouth.
Do NOT give the person stimulants or pain medicines unless a doctor tells you to do so.
Do NOT give the person anything by mouth.
Do NOT raise the site of the bite above the level of the person's heart.
