How to Recognize Symptoms of a Venomous Snake Bite
The symptoms of a venomous snake bite can be very clear, or they can be extremely mild. Sometimes such bites are not even noticed for an hour or more. The reason is that not all snake venom reacts in the same way. You also have to consider the age of the victim and his general health at the time of the bite. This article will give you a working knowledge of what to look out for when assessing the seriousness of a bite.
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Instructions
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Identify the fang marks. Even non-venomous snakes leave bite marks, but a venomous snake generally has twin fangs. Sometimes a venomous snake will only scratch the surface, so do not depend solely on this method.
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Monitor the victim for any variations in blood pressure or respiratory distress. This is a common side effect of bites from coral snakes, cobras and other venomous snakes of their families.
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Expect the victim to experience various levels of pain, both in the vicinity of the bite and in other parts of the extremities. The degree of pain can vary wildly by age, health and the species of snake involved.
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Watch for the area around the bite site to swell over time. Venomous snake bites almost invariably swell up.
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Look out for signs of nausea and dizziness. These are common reactions to bites by venomous snakes of most species.
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Watch for numbness, tingling and weakness in the snake-bite victim. Snake venom often has a numbing effect. The tingling and weakness can be neurological aftereffects brought on by some venomous snakes.
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Be on the lookout for changes in the victim's skin. With vipers, the skin will often blister up. Necrosis of the skin can begin as well. Always beware of skin that turns blue.
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Know that any or all of these symptoms may or may not be present following a snake bite. All bites should be treated as medical emergencies, and professional care should be pursued as quickly as possible.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep the snake-bite victim calm.
Never risk a bite to secure a snake.
- Photo Credit Wikipedia Commons/ Public Domain via Us Fish and WIldlife
