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Each year 50,000 thousand Indians lose their lives to snake bites, and that number accounts for half of the total fatalities globally due to venomous snakes, according to a report by the Press Information Bureau of India.These numbers go higher in or around monsoon season and the higher number of casualties are the people who live in or close to rural or forested areas of India. They consider the possibility of being bitten by a venomous snake to be more than just a hypothetical situation; it is a real and occasionally fatal emergency. These deaths could be avoided with appropriate awareness and prompt medical attention. So, if you come across a snake bite, what should you do? To understand that, we spoke to Dr Shoibalini Karmokar, General Physician and Founder, ACESO Health Clinic.
Symptoms Of A Snake Bite?
There are some signs of a venomous snakebite to watch out for for people who might not be able to tell if they were bitten by a venomous or non-venomous snake. During the first few hours following a venomous snakebite, the victim will frequently experience severe pain when attempting to move the bitten part, as well as some swelling and bruises.
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According to Dr. Karmokar, "it begins with muscle weakness, followed by paralysis." "People may have visual problems like double or blurred vision, breathing difficulties, limb weakness, and unsteady walking." Localised wounds with minor tissue damage are considered non-venomous bites. Dr Karmokar advises cleaning non-venomous bites with soap and water and monitoring them for the next 24 to 48 hours to ensure there are no infection-related symptoms, such as spreading redness or foul-smelling drainage.
Bitten By A Venomous Snake?
“Noting the time of the bite and taking off any jewellery or clothing that might cover or restrict the affected extremity are the first steps”. After that, proceed safely to the closest medical facility. Having a friend or relative drive the bitten person to the hospital is totally acceptable, even though it would be better to call for an ambulance. The primary objective is to receive treatment as soon as possible after being bitten by a snake, but Dr Karmokar says it is preferable to seek care closer to the time of the bite. To help reduce swelling, Rushton advises raising the bitten extremity to heart level or above. However, Dr Kormakar strongly advises against moving the bitten part by sucking at it or trying to cut it off.
“In an attempt to treat the wound, victims should not cut it, try to remove the venom, or apply alcohol, cauterisation, or electric shock. Avoid using a tourniquet on the injured extremity or applying heat or ice to the wound. Before seeking care for the wound, avoid consuming any drugs or medications, alcohol, or caffeinated beverages,” she adds.
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Conclusion
After being bitten by a poisonous snake, a potentially fatal condition known as snakebite envenoming can develop. If prompt and appropriate treatment is not received, venomous snake bites can cause medical problems that could be fatal or cause permanent impairment. With timely access to safe and effective antivenoms, as well as prompt transport and referral, most snakebite envenomation deaths and devastating aftereffects can be prevented.