Many people believe that snake bites are something far from their reality. However, it is worth abandoning such self-confidence, given that snakes live everywhere, and danger can be encountered in any corner of the world.
Myth: Use a tourniquet to trap the venom at the site of the bite
This myth is dangerous because the tourniquet can do more harm than good, because the poison will be retained in one area for a longer time and will damage it more. Research confirms that retaining venom in the bite area will not provide any benefit to the victim.
What do we have to do:
keep the bite area at heart level, do not move, ensure free circulation by removing tight and tight clothing. It is advisable to have someone help the victim navigate this situation. Go to the hospital immediately without using a tourniquet.
Myth: Be sure to identify the type of snake
If this were important, it would indicate that special antivenoms are needed to treat bites. There are indeed remedies against specific snake venoms, but 98% of venomous snake bites occur in a narrow range of species, meaning there is little point in accurately identifying the name of the snake. But it is important to understand whether it is poisonous or not. This can be seen in the shape of the bite: a poisonous snake leaves imprints of two rows of teeth on the skin.
What do we have to do:
Take photographs of the snake if it is safe to do so and watch for the spread of venom. This will help the doctor determine the appropriate treatment.
Myth: Sucking the venom helps with snake bites
Scenes where the hero sucks out the poison after being bitten by a snake are often found in films. However, this is ineffective and may cause poison to enter your mouth.
What do we have to do:
Immediately take the victim to the hospital without wasting time sucking out the poison.
Myth: Apply ice or electric shock to the bitten area
Although we often use ice to relieve injuries, it is not effective for snake bites. Neither ice nor electricity will neutralize the poison.
What do we have to do:
do not hesitate to take the victim to the hospital, avoiding the use of ice or electricity.
A snake bite can be painful and dangerous if the snake is venomous. Swelling and redness may occur at the wound site.
Poisonous snakes live throughout the world, in the tropics and subtropics, deserts, forests and swamps. The most famous of them are the viper, cobra, mamba, and spiketail.
The frequency of snake bites depends on the habitat and activity of people in these places. In regions where snakes are abundant and people are regularly in their vicinity (such as tropical and subtropical areas), snake bites may occur more frequently. In such regions, people may be bitten if they accidentally step on a snake or trespass on its territory.
In more populated or developed areas, where contact with snakes is less common, snake bites may be less common. However, this does not exclude the possibility of a snake bite, especially when people are engaged in outdoor activities or agriculture.
