Being bitten by a snake can be a terrifying situation and may prompt people to react improperly. It is not surprising that people go into panic mode; they may try to capture the animal or apply a tourniquet or ice on the wound that will aggravate the situation. Try to remain calm and follow our recommendations below.
How Should I Respond to a Snake Bite?
Snakes will not bother you if you do not bother them. They will only bite you as an act of self-defense. Once you have been bitten by the snake, remembering the things mentioned below may help you preserve your life.
Should I Call an Ambulance If Bitten by a Snake?
It would help if you always treated snakebites as an emergency, whether it is a venomous or a non-venomous snake. Some of the snakes appear similar, and it will be challenging to determine snakes that carry venom to those who don’t. You should not wait until the signs of venom poisoning manifest. By that time, it might be too late for you to seek proper help. Rather than looking for your phone, remain still and ask someone else to call for assistance. Call the emergency hotline, and they will send you an ambulance. There is also a mobile app that comes with GPS functionality that will help them determine your location.
Should I Suck, Cut, or Wash the Snake Bite?
The old methods in treating the snake’s bite have been proven ineffective and harmful. For instance, washing the wound may wash off the residue of the venom that the doctor can use to identify the species of snake. Never cut, suck, or apply tourniquet around the bite area since it can be pretty dangerous. Remember that any additional movement can prompt the venom to enter your bloodstream, which can be lethal.
Should I Remain Calm If a Snake Bit Me?
This might be easier said than done but remaining calm when a snake bites you can help save your life. It greatly helps in slowing down the spread of venom in your body and through your bloodstream. Snake’s venom will not immediately enter the person’s bloodstream. Instead, it will first go through your lymphatic system. Lymph is a bodily fluid with white blood cells; this fluid will react once you move your limbs. Do your best to stay calm, and you will prevent the venoms in the lymph from traveling through your bloodstream. It will help if you have someone assisting you to avoid any unnecessary movement.
Dealing with snakebite can be a traumatic experience for some. To prevent this from happening, avoid approaching the snakes when you see them. It is best to give them enough space to move around. Snakes are docile and shy creatures; they will immediately leave the premises as soon as they see humans. During snakebites, seek proper medical help immediately. Never wait for the symptoms to manifest before you take any action.
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