If you think you have been bitten by a poisonous snake seek medical attention immediately. You will need to identify the snake to the best of your ability for medical staff. Even if the bite is not immediately painful or does not produce visible symptoms it is still important to get medical attention as some bites can be life-threatening.
There are a few things you can do to try and identify the snake:
-If you saw the snake try to describe it to medical staff. If you have a phone or camera take a picture of the snake if it is safe to do so.
-Pay attention to the symptoms you are experiencing. Medical staff will need to know what symptoms you are experiencing in order to treat you effectively.
-If you have a watch or clock try to note the time you were bitten. This information can be important in helping to identify the type of snake and the severity of the bite.
There are many different types of snakes found all over the world so it is important to try and provide as much information as possible to identify the snake. If you are unable to identify the snake don’t worry medical staff will still be able to provide you with the necessary treatment.
What are some general characteristics of poison snakes?
Answer: Poison snakes are typically brightly colored and have a narrow head.
They may also have a triangular head shape elliptical pupils and a heat-sensing pit between the eye and nostril.
What are the most common types of poison snakes?
Answer: The most common types of poison snakes are vipers and pit vipers.
What type of venom do poison snakes have?
Answer: Poison snakes have hemotoxic venom which damages the tissue and destroys red blood cells.
How does venom spread through the victim’s body?
Answer: Venom from a poison snake bite typically begins to spread through the lymphatic system.
How long does it take for venom to take effect?
Answer: The effects of venom from a poison snake bite can be immediate or may not be apparent for several hours.
What are the symptoms of a poison snake bite?
Answer: Symptoms of a poison snake bite may include swelling bruising and necrosis (death of tissue) at the site of the bite.
The victim may also experience nausea vomiting diarrhea dizziness headache and seizures.
What should you do if you are bitten by a poison snake?
Answer: If you are bitten by a poison snake it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Try to remain calm and still to prevent the spread of the venom.
Apply a bandage over the bite and secure it in place.
If possible Immobilize the affected limb and keep it below the level of the heart.
What are the chances of surviving a poison snake bite?
Answer: The chances of surviving a poison snake bite depend on many factors including the type of snake the amount of venom injected the victim’s age and health and the availability of medical treatment.
What is the treatment for a poison snake bite?
Answer: Treatment for a poison snake bite typically includes antivenom which is a serum that neutralizes the venom.
The victim may also receive pain medication antibiotics and supportive care.
What are the possible complications of a poison snake bite?
Answer: Possible complications of a poison snake bite include tissue damage organ failure gangrene and amputation.
In severe cases the victim may go into shock experience respiratory failure and die.
What can you do to prevent a poison snake bite?
Answer: To prevent a poison snake bite it is important to be aware of your surroundings when you are in areas where snakes are known to live.
Wear long pants and boots when hiking in wooded areas.
Do not try to handle or kill a snake even if it is not poisonous.
If you see a snake give it a wide berth and allow it to pass.
