There are many different types of snake bites and the severity of the bite depends on the type of snake the size of the snake and how much venom is injected. Some snake bites may only cause local swelling and pain while others can be life-threatening. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a snake bite and to seek medical attention immediately if you are bitten.
The first thing to do if you are bitten by a snake is to remain calm. It is important to keep the affected area still to prevent the spread of venom. If you can remove any tight clothing or jewellery from the area. If the bite is on a limb tie a loose bandage (such as a scarf) above the bite and then splint the limb to keep it immobilised.
Do not try to suck out the venom slash the wound with a knife or apply a tourniquet. These methods are ineffective and can actually cause more damage.
If you are more than an hour from medical help you may need to wait for transport while the venom takes effect. In this case lie down with the affected limb lower than the level of your heart and keep the limb immobilised.
If you are having difficulty breathing or if the bite is on your face or neck you will need to seek immediate medical attention even if this means calling an ambulance.
If you are able to reach medical help within 30 minutes of being bitten wash the wound with soap and water and remove any jewellery or clothing that may constrict the area. Apply a clean bandage and splint and keep the limb immobilised.
It is important to seek medical attention even if you do not think the bite is serious as some snake bites can cause serious complications such as tissue damage blood clotting problems and allergic reactions.
What are the symptoms of a snake bite?
Symptoms of a snake bite may include puncture wounds swelling pain and bleeding at the site of the bite.
More serious symptoms may include nausea vomiting convulsions and paralysis.
What should you do if you see a snake?
If you see a snake you should carefully back away from it.
Do not try to capture or kill the snake.
What should you do if you are bitten by a snake?
If you are bitten by a snake you should seek medical attention immediately.
Do not try to capture or kill the snake.
What is the best way to avoid getting bitten by a snake?
The best way to avoid getting bitten by a snake is to be aware of your surroundings and avoid areas where snakes are known to live.
What kind of snakes are poisonous?
All snakes are potentially dangerous but only a few species are considered to be truly poisonous.
These include the cobra mamba and rattlesnake.
How do you know if a snake is poisonous?
You can usually tell if a snake is poisonous by its appearance.
Poisonous snakes are often brightly colored while non-poisonous snakes are typically duller in color.
What should you do if you see a snake in your home?
If you see a snake in your home you should carefully try to guide it out of the house.
Do not try to kill or capture the snake.
What should you do if you are hiking and see a snake?
If you are hiking and see a snake you should carefully back away from it.
Do not try to kill or capture the snake.
What should you do if you are camping and see a snake?
If you are camping and see a snake you should carefully back away from it.
Do not try to kill or capture the snake.
What should you do if you find a snake in your swimming pool?
If you find a snake in your swimming pool you should carefully try to guide it out of the pool.
Do not try to kill or capture the snake.
What should you do if you are bitten by a poisonous snake?
If you are bitten by a poisonous snake you should seek medical attention immediately.
Do not try to capture or kill the snake.
What are the symptoms of a venomous snake bite?
Symptoms of a venomous snake bite may include puncture wounds swelling pain and bleeding at the site of the bite.
More serious symptoms may include nausea vomiting convulsions and paralysis.
What is antivenom?
Antivenom is a medication that is used to treat venomous snake bites.
It works by neutralizing the venom in the bloodstream.
How long does it take for antivenom to work?
Antivenom usually begins to work within minutes after it is administered.
What are the side effects of antivenom?
Side effects of antivenom may include nausea vomiting diarrhea hives and itching.
More serious side effects may include difficulty breathing swelling of the face or throat and dizziness.
