Snake bite

Alternative names

Bites - snakes

Considerations

Each year in the U.S., there are over 8,000 poisonous snakebites - mostly in the summer season.

Poisonous snake bites are medical emergencies, and they can be deadly if not treated quickly. Children are at higher risk for death or serious complications because of their smaller body size. However, the right anti-venom can save a victim's life. Getting the victim to an emergency room as quickly as possible is the top priority, as many snakebites if properly treated will not have serious effects.

Snake bites can cause severe local tissue damage and often require follow-up care.

Causes

Poisonous snake bites include bites by any of the following:

• rattlesnake
  
• copperhead
  
• cottonmouth (water moccasin)
  
• coral snake
  

All snake species will bite when threatened or surprised, but most will usually avoid an encounter if possible and only bite as a last resort. Snakes found in and near water are frequently mistaken as being poisonous. Most species of snake are harmless and many bites will not be life-threatening, but unless you are absolutely sure that you know the species, treat it seriously.

Symptoms

• bloody wound discharge
  
• blurred vision
  
• burning
  
• convulsions
  
• diarrhea
  
• dizziness
  
• excessive sweating
  
• fainting
  
• fang marks in the skin
  
• fever
  
• increased thirst
  
• localized tissue death
  
• loss of muscle coordination
  
• nausea and vomiting
  
• numbness and tingling
  
• rapid pulse
  
• severe localized pain
  
• skin discoloration
  
• swelling at the site of the bite
  
• weakness
  

First Aid

1. Keep the person calm, reassuring 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.