Don't make these common mistakes when bitten by a snake
Snake bites can be serious and require immediate and correct action to mitigate the effects of venom. Here’s a guide on what common mistakes to avoid and what you should do if bitten by a snake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t Panic
Why: Panicking increases your heart rate, which can cause the venom to spread more quickly through your bloodstream.
What to Do Instead: Stay as calm and still as possible to keep your heart rate steady. Deep breaths and a composed mindset can help.
- Don’t Suck the Venom Out
Why: Sucking out the venom can introduce bacteria into the wound and won’t effectively remove the venom. Additionally, it could cause further injury to the affected area.
What to Do Instead: Focus on immobilizing the limb and keeping it at or below heart level to slow venom spread.
- Don’t Apply Ice or a Tourniquet
Why: Applying ice can cause localized tissue damage, and a tourniquet can cut off blood flow entirely, leading to potential tissue death and other complications.
What to Do Instead: Keep the bite area clean and loosely covered with a sterile bandage. Immobilize the limb but ensure blood flow is not restricted.
- Don’t Cut the Wound
Why: Making an incision at the bite site can cause additional injury and increase the risk of infection without effectively removing the venom.
What to Do Instead: Avoid any attempts to cut the wound. Gently clean the area with soap and water if available.
- Don’t Drink Alcohol or Caffeine
Why: Both substances can increase your heart rate, causing the venom to circulate more rapidly in your body.
What to Do Instead: Stay hydrated with water but avoid any stimulants or depressants.
- Don’t Delay Medical Help
Why: Waiting to see if symptoms develop can be dangerous, as some venom effects might not be immediately apparent.
What to Do Instead: Seek medical attention as soon as possible, regardless of the initial severity of symptoms. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
Correct Steps to Take
- Move Away from the Snake
Why: Ensuring you are out of the snake’s striking range prevents further bites.
What to Do: Move to a safe location away from the snake. Note its appearance for identification purposes, but do not attempt to capture or kill it.
- Call Emergency Services
Why: Immediate medical intervention is crucial for managing venomous snake bites.
What to Do: Call emergency services or get to the nearest hospital as quickly as possible. Provide as much information as you can about the bite and the snake.
- Stay Still and Calm
Why: Keeping still helps slow the spread of venom.
What to Do: Sit or lie down and remain as calm and motionless as possible. If you’re with someone, have them help keep you calm and still.
- Immobilize the Affected Limb
Why: Immobilization can slow venom absorption into the bloodstream.
What to Do: Use a splint to immobilize the limb. Keep the limb at or slightly below the level of your heart.
- Remove Tight Clothing and Jewelry
Why: Bites can cause swelling, which could be exacerbated by tight clothing or jewelry.
What to Do: Carefully remove any tight clothing or jewelry from the bitten limb.
Conclusion
Snake bites require prompt and appropriate action to minimize complications and enhance recovery. Avoiding common mistakes like panicking, sucking out venom, applying ice or tourniquets, cutting the wound, and delaying medical help is crucial. Instead, stay calm, immobilize the affected limb, and seek immediate medical attention. By understanding the proper steps to take and being prepared, you can effectively manage a snake bite situation and reduce the risk of serious harm.