A snakebite can occur from a poisonous (venomous) or non-venomous snake. There are about 20,000-100,000 snakebite deaths per year in the world. North America has about 25 species of poisonous snakes able to secrete venom. The most common venomous snakes in the U.S. are rattlesnakes, copperheads, cottonmouths/water moccasins, and coral snakes. The bites of nonpoisonous snakes are "dry" because the snakes cannot secrete venom.
Signs and symptoms of snakebite include pain in the affected area. Even nonpoisonous snake bites can cause local inflammation, redness, and may become infected. Other symptoms and signs associated with poisonous snakebites include
- swelling that spreads away from the bite,
- a fast heart rate or changes in heart rate,
- nausea and vomiting,
- severe burning pain,
- numbness or tingling,
- weakness, and
- trouble breathing.
Cause of snakebites
Snakes typically only bite in self-defense.
Other snakebite symptoms and signs
- Fast Heart Rate or Changes in Heart Rate
- Local Inflammation
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Numbness or Tingling
- Redness
- Severe Burning Pain
- Swelling That Spreads Away From the Bite
- Trouble Breathing
- Weakness
Main Article on Snakebite Symptoms and Signs
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