Hardly a more perfect design,
Could Mother Nature had in mind,
Than this colorful and versatile creature,
With many an adapted feature,
Of the must successful kind.
- reptileallsorts.com
Uchee Creek Campground, Ft. Benning GA
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Proteolytic Venom: dismantles the molecular structure of the area surrounding and including the bite.
Hemotoxic Venom: acts on the heart and cardiovascular system.
Neurotoxic Venom: acts on the nervous system and brain.
Cytotoxic Venom: has a localized action at the site of the bite
General Care for a Snakebite
1.Safety first! If you are in the wilderness when you are bitten, get away from the snake. If it is a captive snake ensure that the snake is returned to its enclosure immediately and locked
2.Call 911 immediately! Waiting until the pain may lead to permanent tissue damage. Remember that calling 911 on a cell phone is different than a regular phone.
3.Do not elevate. Keep the bitten extremity in a heart neutral position.
4.Wash the area with warm water and soap.
5.Remove constricting clothing and jewelry from the extremity. The area may swell and constricting items will cause tissue death.
6.If the snake is an elapid species (coral snakes and cobras), wrap the extremity with an elastic pressure bandage. Start from the point closest to the heart and wrap towards the fingers or toes. Continue to keep the bite lower than the heart.
7.Follow the basics of first aid while waiting for responders to arrive. Be especially concerned about the potential for shock.
Tips:
1.The old school method of cutting into the affected area in the attempt to suck out more venom will only cause more damage and may lead to further envenomation.
2. Instead of killing the snake for identification, use your cell phone or camera to take a picture. Even though a snake is presumed dead, it can still inflict a venomous bite by reflexive action for up to an hour.
