How to Properly Treat a Rattlesnake Bite

The treatment now recommended for a rattlesnake bite has changed completely over the years. Some of the things once recommended for snake bites are now seen as harmful. Take the time to read up if you live in rattlesnake areas or plan to visit them. I live in the western U.S. and have seen more rattlers in the last few years than ever before. They are generally not a problem if treated with respect.

Instructions

1. Rattlesnakes are most often encountered when they are active coming out of hibernation in the early spring and getting ready to go back into hibernation in the fall. The reason for this is mid summer when days are hottest the snakes are able to hunt mice and rodents in the hot nights. Being nocturnal we do not encounter them as much as we seldom hike or travel their habitat at night. Most rattlesnake bites occur when people are hunting or handling rattlesnakes. Left alone rattlesnakes are not aggressive and will stay out of your way. The biggest danger is startling a snake on a trail or in the brush. If you are not within close range they are not going to come after you.

2. First if bit try to get a look at the snake so you may be able to remember the rattlers color. This will help medical professionals use the right strength and type of antivenin, also called anti venom. Don't waste time or get your heart rate up trying to chase down or kill the snake. Even dead a rattlesnake can strike by reflex if handled. Leave the snake be and get help.

3. The most important thing after being bit is to stay calm and not exert yourself and raise your heart rate. Send someone for help or hike out at a moderate speed if away from transportation. Get to medical help as soon as possible as time is sometimes vital. Antivenin is the best treatment. Keep the bitten area immobilized and lower than your heart. Do not elevate legs or arms.

4. It is a good idea to wash the area with warm soapy water to avoid infection. If the bite is on the hand or arm remove any rings or watches or restrictive clothing. If it will be more than 30 minutes before medical help is reached tie a bandage about four inches above the bite to slow the venom. DO NOT tie it tightly. Blood should be able to flow well. The tourniquets used in the past are not recommended. If blood flow is cut completely off it may result in the loss of the limb. Make a bandage loose enough to slip a thumb or finger underneath.

5. Some snake bite kits have a suction device. These are O.K. to use. Do not make cuts in the wound. Cuts have not been shown to help and can cause damage. Do not try to suck the poison out. Do not ice the wound. Cooling has also been shown to be harmful. The best treatment is to move as little as possible to get to medical help and not to do things that will raise your heart rate except as necessary to get to help.