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How to identify and treat snake bites

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  Snake bites Snake bites can be a real threat to people. Of the hundreds of species of snakes in the USA only a low percentage are actually venomous. However, given the shock, distress and panic that most of us would feel on unexpectedly encountering a snake, it is highly unlikely that we would be able to easily identify whether the snake we were facing was venomous or not. Types of venomous snake bites The danger from snake bites and the toxicity of venom that a snake injects in to its victim varies from species to species. The recommended first aid for snake bites will also vary according to species and this underlines the importance of being able to place venomous snakes in to groups according to the properties of their venom. Treatment The required treatment for a snake bite is defined according to whether the venom is cytotoxic, haemotoxic or neurotoxic and the wrong treatment will not only be of little or no help but could even be dangerous. Cytotoxic - An agent or process t...

Snake Bites

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Snake bites should always be taken seriously. Though some are dry bites, which aren't as dangerous and will likely cause some swelling, others are venomous bites, which, if not treated carefully and quickly, can result in death. Always seek immediate medical attention if you've been bitten by a snake, as it could be a matter of life and death. What are snake bites? Snakes bite either to capture prey or for self-defense. But since there are so many different types of snakes — including both venomous and non-venomous — not every snake bite is created equal. Different species carry different types of venom. The major categories include: 1. Cytotoxins: Cause swelling and tissue damage wherever you’ve been bitten. 2. Haemorrhagins: Disrupt the blood vessels. 3. Anti-clotting agents: Prevent the blood from clotting. 4. Neurotoxins: Cause paralysis or other damage to the nervous system. 5. Myotoxins: Break down muscles. Snake bites are very dang...