Snake Bites: Understanding the Risks, Symptoms, and First Aid

Across the world, millions of people get snake bites annually.  According to the  WHO, about 2 million people get venomous bites in Asia every year. Africa records about five hundred and eighty thousand snake-derived bites annually.

The numbers may seem frightening, but they are only estimates based on reported cases. Keep in mind that most cases go unreported. So the actual numbers are higher.  The bites are most common in rural areas with limited access to healthcare, where people may not have the means to seek proper medical attention.

Most victims, therefore, turn to traditional healing methods to survive. Unfortunately, many do not make it due to complications or lack of proper treatment.

Who  Can Get Snake Bites

Anyone can get bitten by snakes, but those at the highest risk include

rural agricultural workers

herders

fishermen,

hunters

working

children,

people living in poorly constructed houses and

those with limited access to education and healthcare.

Symptoms of Venomous Snake Bites

Venomous snake bites can cause a variety of symptoms, including

localized pain and swelling

nausea

convulsions

paralysis

difficulty in breathing

and kidney failure

thirst

low blood pressure

drooping eyelid

weakness

change in skin color

shock

stomach pain

Whether the snake is venomous or not, all snake bites should be considered emergencies because even non-venomous bites can lead to fatal outcomes such as allergies

What to Do For Victims

Commonly recommended first aid tips such as applying ice, using a tourniquet, and elevating the affected area above the heart have been proven to be ineffective and are not recommended. Instead, the following steps should be taken immediately after a snake bite:

Restrict the movement of victims to reduce the circulation of venom in the body. Victims should be carried and should not walk, even if they are capable of doing so.

Remove constricting clothing around the area of the bite.  This is to reduce pain when the area swells

Take note of the time of the bite. This helps in the treatment

Take a picture of the snake if possible and send it with the victim to the hospital. This will help to decide the correct antivenom to administer to the patient.

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