Each year, the American Association of Poison Control Centers receives reports of approximately 5,000 snakebites. Even a bite from a so-called “harmless” snake can cause infection or allergic reaction in some people. For maximum safety, treat all snakebites as if they were venomous and get to a hospital emergency room as quickly as possible, especially if you are unsure of the exact type of snake responsible for the bite. With the correct treatment (or antivenin), severe illness and/or death can be prevented. (Antivenin, also called antivenom, is an antitoxin specific to the venom of a particular animal or insect)People who frequent wilderness areas, camp, hike, picnic or live in snake-inhabited areas should be aware of the potential dangers posed by venomous snakes. These people should know how to identify venomous snakes, have access to transportation and medical assistance in case of emergency and be aware that snakes are more active during warmer months.
What snakes are venomous?
The most common venomous snakebites are caused by the following snakes: Pit vipers – rattlesnakes, Coral snakes, copperheads and cottonmouth (water moccasin) snakes.
Rattlesnake bites cause most of the venomous bites in the US. Coral snakes and imported exotic snakes cause a much smaller number of snakebites.
What are the symptoms of venomous bites?
The following are the most common symptoms of venomous snakebites. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently, and some may not have symptoms for a period of time. In addition, different snakes have different types of venom, so the symptoms may differ. Symptoms may include: bloody wound discharge, fang marks in the skin and swelling at the site of the bite, severe localized pain, discoloration, such as redness and bruising, enlarged lymph nodes in the area affected, diarrhea, burning, convulsions, fainting, dizziness, weakness, blurred vision, excessive sweating, fever, increased thirst, loss of muscle coordination, nausea and vomiting, numbness and tingling, especially in the mouth, rapid pulse, altered mental state, shock, paralysis and breathing difficulties.
The symptoms of a venomous snakebite may resemble other medical conditions or problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.
Treatment for snakebites:
Call for emergency assistance immediately if someone has been bitten by a snake. Responding quickly in this type of emergency is crucial. While waiting for emergency assistance:
Wash the bite with soap and water. Immobilize the bitten area and keep it lower than the heart. Cover the area with a clean, cool compress or a moist dressing to minimize swelling and discomfort. Monitor breathing and heart rate. Remove all rings, watches and constrictive clothing in case of swelling. Note the time of the bite so that it can be reported to an emergency room physician if needed. If possible, try to remember to draw a circle around the affected area and mark the time of the bite and the initial reaction. If you are able, redraw the circle around the site of injury marking the progression of time. It is helpful to remember what the snake looks like, its size, and the type of snake if you know it, in order to inform the emergency room staff. Initial Management of Snakebite Clinical evaluation and initial management of the snakebite is important. EMS has a key role in the early management process.
James Irwin, DO, is a Trauma Medical Director for Northwest Medical Center in Springdale, Ark.
