Properly Treating Snake Bites

Snake bites needed treated properly and quickly. Regardless if the snake is venomous or not a snake bite will still need treated due to high bacteria rates in a snake's mouth. The first thing you will want to ensure is the snake is not a venous snake. One way to tell is by checking the eyes of the snake. If the pupils are round like a humans the snake is not venomous but if the snake has pupils that look like slits like a cat's eyes then the snake is venomous and you need to seek medical treatment right away.

Treating a snake bite that is not venomous will require thoroughly cleaning the bite and apply antiseptic and antibiotic ointments to the wound. This will help clear out any bacteria the snake may have injected into the skin and wound through the bite.

To properly clean the area you will want to make sure there is no dirt or debris in the wound. Thoroughly wash the area with soap and water or an antiseptic first aid wash. Apply an antibiotic cream or spray to the wound after it has been thoroughly washed and dried.

Make sure you watch for signs of infection. Signs of infection would include drainage coming from the wound that is yellow, green, or brown in coloring. Keep in mind that that old or dry blood will appear brown. Any smell coming from the wound is also a sign of infection. Look for abnormal redness around the wound site.

If the wound does become infected you will want to seek medical treatment so the wound can be properly taken care of by your health care provider to prevent more extensive damage.

Keep the wound covered for the first 24 hours then allow air to reach the wound to ensure properly healing.

Snakes like various areas and one should acquaint themselves with the types of snakes that are common in ones area. Know where these types of snakes dwell and there aggressive nature. It is not wise to try and catch snakes if you are unaware of the aggression levels of the type of snake you are dealing with or if you are unsure if the snake is venomous or not.

Source:

University of Maryland Medical Center: Snake

Mayo Clinic: Snake Bites