Snake bites are common occurrences in tropical and sub tropical climates in which people have invaded the territory frequented by the snakes. Most of these bites are harmless and will only result in a faint bite mark or no trace of the bite at all. Unfortunately, common misconceptions have lead to undue elimination of these creatures and certain species have already gone into extinction.
However, the conflict between the humans and the snakes will prevail for many more centuries and we as human beings should identify ways in which we can prevent these bites from happening. Apart from the prevention, we also need to know how to give first aid following a snake bite, which sometimes can be lifesaving.
As most of these bites take place in the wild, there will be very little or absolutely no help at all for the bite victim. The chances of survival in such situations will depend on how you would treat yourself if you are alone or how you will be treated by the accompanying person.
Following will be a several do’s and don’ts after a suspected snake bite,
- 1. Do not panic
- Many snakes are harmless or mildly venomous. They will not cause any fatal damage except for mild local signs.
- 2. Do not suck or try to remove the bitten tissues
- Sucking will put the person who’s doing it in danger by exposing him to the venom. The misconception of trying to remove the tissue involved in the biting would do more harm than any good.
- 3. Reduce the movements of the affected area
- When the affected area moves, it allows the poison to travel through the increased regional circulation to the entire body. Therefore, the movements of the affected area should be limited by attaching a splint. A tree branch will be more than enough to achieve this task.
- 4. Call for help if you are alone
- 5. Try to identify the snake
- In most countries where the snake bites are common, the people are advised to bring the snake to the hospital for identification. Based on identification, anti venom treatment can be initiated.
- 6. Try to wash the bite site with adequate water and if available, with soap.
- 7. Application of pressure towards a proximal location of the affected limb.
The process is called applying a ‘tourniquet’ and if not applied properly can result in ischemic damage to the affected limb. Therefore, the technique has been debated as for its effectiveness in comparison to the damage it can cause.
Following the initial first aid management, the victim should be taken to a medical facility for further treatment with the snake if it cannot be identified. Last but not least, you should find for yourself the best balisong trainer, all for your safety.