When a snake sinks its teeth into your flesh it feels like a sharp pain puncturing the skin. Some people say it feels like being pricked by a needle. Others compare it to being pinched or stung.
The pain from a snake bite is not usually constant. It may come and go at first and then become more intense as the venom spreads through your body.
Snake venom is a complex mixture of toxins that can cause a wide range of effects. The severity of the symptoms depends on the type of snake the amount of venom injected and the person’s individual response to the venom.
Local effects
The venom from most snakes will cause some localised effect at the site of the bite such as swelling redness and pain. In some cases the skin may even break down and ulcerate.
Systemic effects
If the venom spreads through your bloodstream it can cause more widespread effects such as:
– nausea and vomiting
– diarrhoea
– abdominal pain
– headache
– drowsiness
– dizziness
– weakness
– blurred vision
– convulsions
– paralysis
In severe cases the venom can affect the heart and lungs and can lead to organ failure and death.
What to do if you’re bitten by a snake
If you’re bitten by a snake it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
If you’re in a remote area call for help and try to keep the affected limb lower than the level of your heart to reduce the spread of the venom.
If you can try to identify the type of snake and take a photo of it if possible. This will help the medical staff treat you more effectively.
In the meantime try to remain calm and still to prevent the venom from spreading through your body.
What do snake bites feel like?
Answer 1: Most snake bites feel like a sharp puncture wound.
Some people report feeling a burning sensation.
Do all snake bites hurt?
Answer 2: No not all snake bites hurt.
If the snake is not venomous the bite will not be harmful.
Will a snake bite always be painful?
Answer 3: A snake bite will not always be painful.
If the snake is not venomous the bite will not be harmful.
Are there different types of snake bites?
Answer 4: There are different types of snake bites depending on the type of snake.
Venomous snakes will have a different type of bite than non-venomous snakes.
What are the symptoms of a snake bite?
Answer 5: The symptoms of a snake bite depend on the type of snake.
Venomous snakes will have different symptoms than non-venomous snakes.
How long do the symptoms of a snake bite last?
Answer 6: The symptoms of a snake bite can last for a few hours or a few days.
It depends on the type of snake and the severity of the bite.
What should I do if I get bitten by a snake?
Answer 7: If you are bitten by a snake you should seek medical attention immediately.
Will a snake bite always require medical attention?
Answer 8: A snake bite will always require medical attention if the snake is venomous.
If the snake is not venomous the bite will not be harmful.
How do I know if a snake is venomous?
Answer 9: You can usually tell if a snake is venomous by its appearance.
Venomous snakes will often have a triangle-shaped head while non-venomous snakes will have a round head.
What are the different types of venomous snakes?
Answer 10: The different types of venomous snakes include cobras rattlesnakes and copperheads.
How can I tell if a snake is venomous?
Answer 11: You can usually tell if a snake is venomous by its appearance.
Venomous snakes will often have a triangle-shaped head while non-venomous snakes will have a round head.
What should I do if I see a venomous snake?
Answer 12: If you see a venomous snake you should avoid it and call animal control.
How can I avoid getting bitten by a snake?
Answer 13: You can avoid getting bitten by a snake by being careful when you are around them.
Do not try to handle a snake and be cautious when walking in areas where snakes are known to live.
What should I do if I am bitten by a snake?
Answer 14: If you are bitten by a snake you should seek medical attention immediately.
What are the different types of venomous snakes?
Answer 15: The different types of venomous snakes include cobras rattlesnakes and copperheads.
