A rattlesnake bite can occur among those who spend time outdoors. Rattlesnakes are large and venomous snakes. A most distinctive feature of these species is the rattle. A A rattlesnake bite has hemotoxic elements which can damage tissue, affects the circulatory system by destroying the blood cells and tissues of skin and result to internal hemorrhage.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNHQyVPakLk
The venom also contains neurotoxic elements which disrupts the nervous system and affects breathing.
Symptoms of a rattlesnake bite
- One or two puncture marks on the skin
- Swelling of the bite site
- Tingling or burning sensation and pain felt at the affected area
- Numbness
Tingling or burning sensation and pain felt at the affected area. - Bruising and discoloration of the skin
- Nausea, weakness and lightheadedness
- Difficulty breathing
Treatment
- Move away from the rattlesnake immediately, the snake can strike again. Move out at least 20 feet away from the snake.
- Wash the bite site using clean water and soap.
- If the site of the rattlesnake bite is on the hand or arm, remove any jewelry such as rings and watches or any tight clothing.
- Keep the person immobile to lessen the flow of venom to other areas of the body until medical help arrives.
- Allow the wound to bleed freely for at least half a minute to let the venom flow out together with the blood.
- Suck out the venom using a suction device. Place the suction device over the bite site and pump out all the venom from the area.
- Place a clean bandage on the wound. Avoid washing the area so that the medical professionals will know what is on the skin and the kind of rattlesnake that has bitten the person.
- Tie a splint or sling on the affected limb to keep the bite site immobile and minimize the flow of blood in the area and lessen the spread of venom. Make an arm sling by making a triangle using a fabric by folding or cutting it.
- For the affected limb, use rolled-up newspapers, sticks or rolled-up fabric. Secure the support for the limb using belts. If the affected limb swells, lessen the pressure of the splint to prevent further damage and worsen the condition.
- If the affected person shows symptoms of shock such as fast breathing, fast heartbeat, dizziness, nausea and dilated pupils, lay him/her on the back and raise the feet at least one foot high. Keep the person warm by wrapping the person with a blanket or another layer of clothing.
- If the person is not breathing, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation until medical help arrives.
More Information
The details posted on this page on a rattlesnake bite is for learning purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage wilderness emergencies including a rattlesnake bite, enroll in a first aid course with one of our training providers.
FACT CHECK
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snakebite