Each year in the United States, there are over 8,000 poisonous snakebites -- mostly in the summer season.
Poisonous snake bites are medical emergencies, and they can be deadly if not treated quickly.
Alternative Names:
Bites - snakes
Considerations:
Children are at higher risk for death or serious complications due to snake bites because of their smaller body size. However, the right antivenom can save a person's life. Getting the person to an emergency room as quickly as possible is very important. If properly treated, many snakebites will not have serious effects.
Causes:
Poisonous snake bites include bites by any of the following:
Rattlesnake
Copperhead
Cottonmouth (water moccasin)
Coral snake
Cobras
Various snakes found at zoos
All snakes will bite when threatened or surprised, but most will usually avoid an encounter if possible and only bite as a last resort. Snakes found in and near water are frequently mistaken as being poisonous. Most species of snake are harmless and many bites will not be life-threatening, but unless you are absolutely sure that you know the species, treat it seriously.
Symptoms:
Symptoms depend on the type of snake. General symptoms may include:
Cottonmouth and copperhead bites are immediately painful. Symptoms, which usually begin immediately, may include:
Bleeding
Breathing difficulty
Low blood pressure
Nausea and vomiting
Numbness and tingling
Pain at site of bite
Shock
Skin color changes
Swelling
Thirst
Tiredness
Tissue damage
Weakness
Weak pulse
Coral snake bites may be painless at first. Major symptoms may not develop for hours. DO NOT make the mistake of thinking you will be fine if the bite area looks good and you are not in a lot of pain. Untreated coral snake bites can be deadly. Symptoms may include:
Review Date: 5/15/2006
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Injury/Emergency
