Snake bites
Most snake bites are less problematic, but it’s always best to check with a doctor as early as possible.
Things you must do while waiting for help
Do
- Remain serene since most snake bits are less severe and its easily curable
- Hold still the bitten position
- Be in the recovery position
- Have paracetamol to ease the pain
- Always keep in mind the snake’s color and pattern
- If you find swelling, wear loose clothes and remove the jewelry; if weared
Don’t
- After the bit, if you spot the snake, don’t go trying to catch or kill it; it’s too dangerous
- Please do not suck the poison out; it makes things worse
- Don’t tighten the area of the bit; it should be loose
- Avoid consuming aspirin or ibuprofen, as they make bleeding worse
If a snake has bitten you, you’ll be requested to stay in the hospital for a day.
What happens at the hospital
You will usually be in the hospital for at least 24 hours if a snake has bitten you.
The spot will be cleaned and bandaged, and you will get an injection to help protect you from tetanus.
If a poisonous (venomous) snake bit you, you would be treated with medicine to fight the venom through a thin tube into a vein called a drip.
Venomous snake in India
Four terrestrial venomous snakes are general on the Indian landmass – also known as the “big four.”
They include;
- Spectacled cobra (Naja naja)
- Common krait (Bungarus caeruleus)
- Russell’s viper (Daboia russelii)
- Saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus).
These crucial species are responsible for the majority of the mortality and injury cases in the country.
You should Explain to the doctors the pattern and the color of the snake that bit you that could help them treat it.
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 04 October 2022