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Medindia » First Aid » First Aid-Snake Bites

Snake Bites - First Aid and Emergency Treatment Guide

Comments (7)

Snake Bites

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   Overview
   Causes
    Symptoms
   Treatment
   Prevention

Overview

Thousands suffer from snake bites, globally, every year

People who live near wilderness/trekkers - more prone

Even bite from a harmless snake can cause allergic reaction

Causes Some common venomous snakes include -

Viper
Cobra
Rattle snake
Water moccasin
Coral snake
Copper head

Symptoms

Fang marks
Swelling/severe pain at the site
Bloody discharge from wound
Burning
Diarrhea
Excessive sweating
Blurred vision
Numbness/tingling sensation
Increased thirst
Vomiting
Fever
Loss of muscle co-ordinations
Convulsions
Rapid pulse
Weakness/Dizziness/Fainting

Treatment a. Seek Medical help as soon as possible. Meanwhile -

Wash wound with soap/water
Immobilize the affected area
Keep area slightly elevated
Apply cool compress/wet cloth to affected part
Apply a firm bandage 2-4 inches above bite to
i. Prevent venom from spreading
ii.Take care of any bleeding

b. Monitor for pulse, respiration and blood pressure Prevention

Do not attempt to kill a snake.
If you spot a snake, leave it alone
While hiking or in the woods, stay out of tall grass
Do not put your hand into pits/crevices during treks
Exercise caution while climbing rocks

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IN CASE OF EMERGENCY(ICE)-Life Saving Measures

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Member Comments ( 7 )

The Given treatments are misleading.
Do not wash the area. A doctor can use a sample from the bite site to help identify the venom by using a Venom Detection Kit test, aiding in the administering of the correct antivenene.
Do not elevate the area. elevation increases the flow of blood towards the heart and cause more danger.
Do not put ice or cool compress. cold increases the circulation and worsen the situation.
(Posted by RajeshAugustian, Oman Date : 5/15/2012 )

thank you very much.it is more helpfull to every one
(Posted by rajkumarbanoth, India Date : 4/11/2012 )

THANK YOU A LOT LOT LOT LOT!!!! :-)
YOU REALLY HELPED ME FINISH MY HOLIDAY HOMEWORK
(Posted by LALLOO, N/A Date : 6/11/2011 )

Good to get this information. however, I'm confused about the use of ice and for that matter cold. while some authorities talk about put ice on it may lead to frostbite, others recommend it. which do we take?
(Posted by Bigjoe, N/A Date : 6/11/2011 )

PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE ARE SEVERAL INCORRECT TREATMENTS ABOVE!!!!

Do NOT put ice or cold compress on the wound - it will make it WORSE.

DO NOT EVER elevate above the heart - you need to keep the would below the heart so that the venom does not go to the heart.
(Posted by BLAHBLAH1, United States Date : 5/27/2011 )

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