What To Do In Case Of A Snakebite

What to Do?

* Calm the victim as fear, panic, and excitable breathing can make the victim’s condition worse. Keep the victim as still as possible.

* Keep the affected body part as still as possible and cut away or remove any clothing that might press upon the area, as it might begin swelling up.

* Rush the victim to the closest hospital.

* Try and identify the species that caused the bite. Most venomous bites are caused by a cobra, krait, or viper and locals are usually familiar with the species prevalent in their area. They may also suggest local remedies.

* Using an anti-venom for a specific species of snake is very effective; yet, if the species cannot be identified, a general anti-venom can help.

* Time is of the essence because the wound area can get numb; in extreme cases, there could be loss of that body part, unless quickly treated.

* If you are unable to get medical help, stay calm, and don’t move most snakes don’t inject enough venom to cause a fatality. The fear of snakes and the anxiety that follows a snake bite cause more harm because a fast-beating heart spreads the venom quickly.

WHAT NOT TO DO?

* Give water or food to the victim

* Offer alcohol

* Offer any medication (unless being treated by a medical professional)

* Cut the wound and try to bleed out the venom

* Use a tourniquet to stem the flow of blood

* Suck out the blood with any apparatus or your mouth

*Ask the patient to move or walk around

* Catch the snake

* Clean the wound; if you must, do it with soap water