1. Call emergency medical services
Get professional medical assistance as quickly as possible.
If another person is nearby, have them make the call while you remain as still and calm as possible.
Snake venom can affect the nervous system, blood clotting, muscles, or other organs depending on the species.
Time can matter.
2. Keep the affected limb still
Movement can increase circulation and potentially contribute to the spread of venom through the body.
Keep the bitten area as still as reasonably possible.
If practical, immobilize the limb in a comfortable position while waiting for medical assistance.
Avoid unnecessary walking.
3. Remove tight items
Swelling may develop around the bite.
Remove rings, watches, bracelets, tight shoes, or restrictive clothing from the affected limb before significant swelling occurs.
Do this carefully and without manipulating the wound unnecessarily.
4. Stay as calm as possible
This is easier said than done, but panic can increase heart rate and physical activity.
Try to remain still and breathe normally while waiting for medical help.
Do not run for help if another option is available.
What NOT to Do After a Snakebite
This is where many dangerous myths continue to circulate.
Do not cut the wound
Cutting the bite site will not safely remove venom.
It can instead cause additional tissue damage, bleeding, infection, and other complications.
Do not suck out the venom
Trying to suck venom from a snakebite is an old practice that is not recommended.
It does not reliably remove venom and can introduce bacteria into the wound.
Do not apply ice directly to the bite
Ice can damage already injured tissue and does not neutralize snake venom.
Do not use a tourniquet
A tight tourniquet can severely restrict blood flow and potentially cause serious tissue damage.
Snakebite first aid varies by species and location, so follow instructions from emergency professionals rather than improvising.
Do not drink alcohol
Alcohol is not a treatment for snakebite and may interfere with judgment and medical management.
Do not take unnecessary medications
Avoid self-treating with medications unless advised by a healthcare professional.
In particular, some medicines can increase bleeding risk, which may be especially concerning with snake species that affect blood clotting.
What Symptoms Should You Watch For?
Symptoms vary dramatically depending on the snake species and the type of venom involved.
Possible symptoms can include:
Increasing pain or swelling around the bite
Bruising or discoloration
Nausea or vomiting
Weakness or dizziness
Sweating
Difficulty breathing
Blurred or altered vision
Drooping eyelids
Difficulty speaking or swallowing
Muscle weakness
Abnormal bleeding
Confusion or loss of consciousness
Importantly, the absence of immediate symptoms does not necessarily mean that the bite is harmless.
Some venom effects can take time to become obvious.
That's another reason why suspected venomous bites require medical assessment even when the person initially feels relatively well.
Should You Take a Photo of the Snake?
If you can do so from a safe distance, a photograph may help medical professionals identify the species.
But don't approach the snake just to get a better picture.
Your safety is far more important than obtaining a photograph.
Never attempt to pick up a dead snake either. Reflex movements can potentially result in injury, and handling the animal unnecessarily creates another opportunity for a bite.
