Snake bites are harmful; unfortunately, people get so scared that they forget to administer first aid. This is not the right approach! We have so little knowledge of wildlife these days that it might be challenging to determine whether a snake bite is harmful or not. The reality is that most snakes pose little threat to humans, and basic first aid treatment for snake bites is enough in that situation! 

Globally, just about 24.4% of snakes can inject venom when they bite. But don’t neglect the fact that even non-venomous snake bites can cause infection, so proper treatment is necessary. It's also crucial to know that, in extremely rare circumstances, snake bites can result in a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis, and you should go to the emergency room if that happens. 

This blog will discuss what to do if you get bitten by a snake and the correct first-aid treatment for a snake bite.

Are All Snake Bites Dangerous?

No, not all snake bites are dangerous, but no matter how small, every snake bite needs to be addressed as a medical emergency. There are two types of snakes - venomous and nonvenomous. Venomous snakes produce venom, which is a poisonous and deadly chemical. When these snakes bite anyone, their fangs inject the poison into the victim. 

Venomous bites can be extremely harmful and even fatal and happen when a snake bites you and injects venom into your body. On the other hand, non-venomous snakes do not produce any venom, and if they bite you, they do not inject poison into your body. 

First aid for a snake bite is crucial unless you are certain the snake is not poisonous. After being bitten by a poisonous snake, any delay in receiving care increases the risk of severe damage or sometimes even death, so always be careful.

Symptoms That You Could Experience After a Snake Bite

The type of snake that bit you will determine the symptoms you’ll experience.

Non-Venomous Snake Bite Symptoms

If you get bitten by a non-venomous snake, you’ll see these symptoms:

• Skin may start becoming redder or darker on the bite site 

• Oedema 

• Bleeding in the bite area

Venomous Snake Bite Symptoms

But if you get bitten by a non-venomous snake, then you’ll notice these signs:

• Skin puncture wound from the bite 

• Changes in skin colour

• Sharp, throbbing, or searing pain

• Vomiting and nausea

• Sweating 

• Headache

• Drooling 

• A metallic taste in your mouth

• Lightheadedness

• Blurry vision 

Severe Snake Bite Symptoms

If your snake bike is more severe, then you may experience these things: 

• Uncontrollable bleeding 

• Trouble breathing

• Numbness/weakness in your face and limbs

• Extreme oedema

• Low blood pressure

• Weaker pulse

• Accelerated heartbeat

What to Do in Case of Anaphylaxis from a Snake Bite?

Sometimes, a snake bite can lead to serious allergic reactions known as anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock. Anaphylactic shock is extremely dangerous and sometimes lethal. In case of anaphylaxis, you’ll experience these symptoms: 

• Swollen tongue

• Loud breathing

• Problem in speaking

• Recurrent fainting or collapsing

• Throat swelling

• Wheezing

If you see any of these symptoms, then take the victim to the nearest hospital for emergency treatment. 

What Is the Correct First Aid Treatment for a Snake Bite?

In case of a snake bite, your priority should be to take the victim to a hospital. However, if an ambulance or medical help is not available or will take some time to arrive, then follow these steps: 

• Call emergency services right away!

• Keep the victim calm, and don't let them panic.

• Remove any tight jewellery, such as bracelets or rings, from the area that has been bitten because that can cause damage if swelling develops.

• Move the patient to a location where transportation is accessible so they can be taken to a hospital quickly.  

• A pressure immobilization bandage is an emergency treatment for a snake bite. If you have this bandage, then cover the bite area with it, and don't let the victim move around; keep them still. However, it needs to be very tight.  

• Next, immobilize the entire limb with a strong crepe or elasticized roller bandage and lift the bitten limb away from the heart.  

• If the victim is facing severe localized pain, give them paracetamol. 

• Keep a close eye on the victim's breathing pattern, and be prepared to provide CPR if needed.

What Not to Do While Giving First-Aid Treatment for Snake Bite? 

Here are a few things you should not do after getting bitten by a snake:

• Don't wait for first aid/treatment till the symptoms appear

• Do not cut yourself open or extract the poison using your mouth

• Avoid using ice or immersing your wound in water

• Avoid using any aspirin or ibuprofen  

Final Remarks

Keeping calm after a snake bite can be quite challenging as people tend to panic. If you or somebody gets bitten by a snake, try to calm that person down and apply first aid for snake bites. Then, seek emergency care from your nearest emergency hospital or call an ambulance as soon as possible! Seeking emergency treatment and first aid is a must for effective snake bite management.

FAQs

1. What are the first signs of a snakebite?
Look for two puncture wounds, swelling, pain, and potentially nausea or dizziness.

2. How do I prevent a snakebite?
Wear appropriate footwear when hiking, avoid walking in tall grass and be cautious around rocks and logs.

3. What should I do if I am bitten by a snake?
Stay calm, remove any jewellery from the bitten area, and seek medical attention immediately.

4. What are the risks of a snakebite?
Snake venom can cause tissue damage, organ failure, and even death if left untreated.

5. When should I seek professional medical help after a snakebite?

Seek immediate medical attention for all suspected snakebites. Even if the bite seems minor, it's crucial to receive proper medical care.

References:

1. Luiselli, L., Sale, L., Akani, G. C., & Amori, G. (2020). Venomous snake abundance within snake species’ assemblages worldwide. Diversity, 12(2), 69.

2. What happens when you’re bitten by a venomous snake? (2021, October 29). Natural History Museum.

3. Hogan, D. E., & Dire, D. J. (1990). Anaphylactic shock secondary to a rattlesnake bite. Annals of Emergency Medicine, 19(7), 814–816.