Ermones^® Pest Management
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Snake Bites

The danger of snake bites:

Each year, nearly there are about 50,000 - 100,000 deaths of snake bites world wide! Even a bite from a so-called "harmless" snake can cause infection or allergic reaction in some people. People who frequently visit wilderness areas, camp, hike, picnic, or live in snake-inhabited areas should be aware of the potential dangers posed by venomous snakes.

What snakes cause poisonous bites?

Any of the following snakes cause poisonous bites:

•  Blunt Nosed Viper

•  Cat Snake

•  Montpellier Snake

What are the symptoms of poisonous bites?

While each individual may experience symptoms differently, the following are the most common symptoms of poisonous snake bites:

bloody wound discharge	weakness blurred vision
excessive sweating	fang marks in the skin and swelling at the site of the bite
severe localized pain	fever
diarrhea	increased thirs
burning	loss of muscle coordination
convulsions	nausea and vomiting
fainting	numbness and tingling
dizziness	rapid pulse

How are snake bites treated?

Call for emergency assistance immediately if someone has been bitten by a snake. Responding quickly in this type of emergency is crucial. While waiting for emergency assistance:

•  Wash the bite with soap and water

•  Immobilize the bitten area and keep it lower than the heart

•  Cover the area with a clean, cool compress or a moist dressing to minimize swelling and discomfort

•  Monitor vital signs.

If a victim is unable to reach medical care within 30 minutes, the American Red Cross recommends:

•  Apply a bandage, wrapped two to four inches above the bite, to help slow the venom. This should not cut off the flow of blood from a vein or artery - the band should be loose enough to slip a finger under it.

•  A suction device can be placed over the bite to help draw venom out of the wound without making cuts. These devices are often included in commercial snake bite kits.

Most often, physicians use antivenin -- an antidote to snake venom -- to treat serious snake bites. Antivenin is derived from antibodies created in a horse's blood serum when the animal is injected with snake venom. Because antivenin is obtained from horses, snake bite victims sensitive to horse products must be carefully managed.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page by Ermones^® is for educational purposes only and IS NOT intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always must seek professional medical advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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