Every year, 1000's of people throughout the world are bitten by snakes. However, the chances of death or serious injury are relatively small. Most bites are by non-poisonous snakes (even poisonous snakes only sometimes inject venom). Snakes will rarely attack unless provoked, surprized or cornered. Modern medical treatment is usually effective provided the victim gets to hospital quickly.
!b i! It takes hours or days (not minutes) for even the most powerful snake venom to kill an adult. !n! Poisonous snakes are generally found in USA (e.g. rattlesnake), Africa, Middle East, Australia & Indian Subcontinent !i! (cobras alone kill 10,000 people/year in India). !n! The only poisonous snake in U.K. is the adder (viper family). It bites about 100 people/year & has caused about 10 deaths this century.
Although there may be no native poisonous snakes in your region, bear in mind that some people collect poisonous species. Most venomous snakes have either a {neurotoxic} or {cardiotoxic} action . . .
NEUROTOXIC will cause {paralysis} of muscles & without treatment, failure of {respiration}. The speed of onset of breathing problems will largely depend on type of snake.
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CARDIOTOXIC acts directly on heart muscles & will cause {cardiac arrest} if not treated. Again, speed of onset will depend on type of snake & amount of venom injected.
DIAGNOSIS: Witness bite, swelling & pain at site of bite, presence of twin punctures on skin/clothing, discoloration of skin, {vomiting}, disturbed vision.
TREATMENT: Treat {shock}. Keep bite site lower than heart. Quickly get to a medical center where anti-snake venom is available.
#clint poison
/animated 5 f/s
It is not advisable to make incision into area of bite & try to suck out venom as 1 is rarely immediately available to prevent absorption of poison. However, it is important to identify the snake so that a suitable anti-venom can be administered. Make a note of snake's markings & size, or if it has been captured or killed, be sure to keep it.
