Imagine that you are going through a quiet, calm footprint in the wild, when suddenly, without warning, you feel sharp pain in your leg.
You look down, and there is: Snake, his tongue moves in and out, just a few meters. It will hit it without hesitation. What are you doing now? For many, this frightening scenario is more common than you would think.
While the chances of biting a poisonous snake may seem low, it is a reality with which thousands face each year, especially in areas where snakes are a natural part of the environment. Understanding how to react in these critical first moments could mean the difference between life and death.
Each year, 7,000 to 8,000 people in the United States are bitten by poisonous snakes, with rapid medical intervention with only a small number of deaths. In countries with lower income, however, the Snakebite envenies continue to be a significant problem for public health.
Worldwide is about 15% of poisonous snakes, and in the US there are about 20% of snake species, including rattles, coral snakes, cotton and copper. Poisonous snakes usually have specific features: pupils in the shape of slits, triangular heads and fangs. Coral snake is an exception because it has round pupils and a blunt head.
** Instant steps to take after a serpent bite **
1. ** Move to Security and stay calm **
First, move away from the snake immediately.
Do not attempt to capture or kill it.
Stay calm to help slow down your heart rate and prevent the poison from spreading.
Remove any tight clothes or jewelry from the bite area.
2. ** Follow the snake characteristics (if safe) **
If possible, take note of the size, shape and color of the snake.
If possible, take a safe distance because it can help with treatment.
3. ** Keep the affected limb still **
Do not use bitten limb.
If possible, immobilize it with a splint and keep it below the heart level.
4. ** Seek medical attention immediately **
Call the emergency services or go to the nearest hospital.
If you are alone, signal help and move carefully, minimize the movement of the affected limb.
** What to avoid after the snake bites: **
Keep in mind common myths that could get worse injury:
* Don’t cut the wound or try to vacuum poison.
* Avoid using ice or turnstile.
* Stay away from alcohol, caffeine and over -the -counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or aspirin.
** What happens in the hospital: **
Medical experts evaluate bite, provide antivenom if necessary and manage care of wounds and pain relief. Follow any symptoms such as swelling, redness or growing pain.
** Tips for prevention: **
* When walking or hiking in areas known to have snakes.
* Use a flashlight at night.
* Do not attempt to manipulate or provoke snakes.
* Stay in alert when they are in grassy or rocky areas.
Being ready and informed is your best defense. In the case of a snake bites, remain calm and quickly gain medical attention, actions are crucial that could save your life.
In conclusion, while Snakebites can be a scary experience, it is necessary to know how to respond quickly and appropriately. Staying calm, moving to safety and searching for immediate medical care are the most critical measures that you can take. Avoiding common misconceptions, such as attempting to reduce the wound or use of a turnstile, will help prevent further complications.
In case of proper prevention and readiness, such as wearing protective equipment and vigilance in areas susceptible to snakes, you can reduce the risk of meeting a poisonous snake. In the unfortunate event Snakebite can remain informed and quickly be a safe recovery.