Q. What’s the best way to treat rattle snake bites in the wild?

Thanks –Lorenzo.

A. Lorenzo, please check out the “Venomous Snake Bites” chapter (excerpted below) from Dr. Weiss’ A Comprehensive Guide to Wilderness & Travel Medicine, 3rd.

Treatment

The definitive treatment for snake venom poisoning is the administration of antivenin. The most important aspect of therapy is to get the victim to a medical facility as quickly as possible.

Signs and Symptoms of Envenomation

• One or more fang marks (rattlesnake bites may leave one, two, or even three fang marks).

by Eric A. Weiss, M.D. (excerpt from his book,
A Comprehensive Guide to Wilderness & Travel Medicine)

VENOMOUS SNAKE BITES

There are two classes of poisonous snakes in the United States:

• Pit Vipers (rattlesnakes, cottonmouths [water moccasins], and copperheads) have a characteristic triangular head, a deep pit (heat receptor organ) between the eye and nostril, and a catlike, elliptical pupil.

• Elapids (coral snakes) are characterized by their color pattern with red, black, and yellow or white bands encircling the body. The fangs are short — these snakes bite by chewing rather than by striking.

Myth of the Month – Extracting Snake Venom

Myth: Cut, suck or extract or extract snake venom out of the skin from a poisonous snake bite.

Fact: Cutting, sucking or using an extraction pump will cause more harm than good, while removing little, if any venom. Remove constrictive clothing and jewelry and keep the snake bite elevated above the level of the heart while seeking professional medical care.

Remember to carry a first aid kit with you at all times!

BE SAFE Tip – Outdoor Tip – Snake Bite Prevention

• Stay away from infested areas.
• Do not hike at night when the snakes are out.
• Only place your foot or hand in areas you have visually searched for snakes.
• Shake out your shoes, clothing and bags in the morning.
• Don’t try to pick up a snake.
• Wear high leather boots in snake country.

Learn more wilderness medicine and first aid tips – click here for Dr. Weiss’s Comprehensive Guide to Wilderness and Travel Medicine.