By Diksha Modi,News18
Copyright news18
With the onset of monsoon, the risk of snake encounters rises sharply across rural and urban India. Medical experts warn that snake bites remain one of the most underreported yet deadly health emergencies in the country, claiming thousands of lives each year. Doctors emphasise that timely first aid and calm decision-making are critical in saving lives.
Why Risk Increases During Monsoon
Snakes, forced out of their burrows by heavy rains, often enter homes, fields, and low-lying areas. In such circumstances, sudden encounters with humans become more frequent. Physicians say most snakes do not attack unless provoked, but fear-driven reactions by humans often escalate the danger.
What to Do If You Spot a Snake
Experts caution against running in panic. “The safest course of action is to step back slowly and allow the snake to leave the area. Snakes generally avoid human contact unless they feel threatened,” say wildlife experts.
How to Identify a Snake Bite
According to Dr Yogesh Sharma, the first sign of a snake bite is the appearance of two distinct puncture marks. “Victims may also experience swelling, redness and severe pain at the site. In cases of venomous bites, symptoms such as blurred vision, difficulty swallowing, dizziness, vomiting, and even muscle weakness may appear,” he explained. Crucially, these symptoms can take hours to manifest, underscoring the need for immediate medical attention even when the bite does not appear serious.
Immediate First Aid: Do’s and Don’ts
Dr Sharma stressed that the most vital step after a bite is to remain calm and limit movement. “Running or panicking accelerates the spread of venom,” he noted. Victims are advised to remove tight accessories like rings or watches to prevent complications from swelling, wash the wound with soap and water, and apply a firm bandage with moderate pressure to slow venom movement through the lymphatic system. Importantly, the bandage must not cut off blood supply.
Medical experts warn against widely practiced but dangerous home remedies. “Do not try to suck out the venom, apply alcohol, lemon, or hot compresses. These methods can worsen the patient’s condition,” Dr Sharma said.
Once first aid is administered, reaching a hospital without delay is critical. Doctors recommend keeping the affected limb slightly below heart level and maintaining the pressure bandage until anti-venom treatment is provided by professionals. If an ambulance is available, it should be called immediately. Companions are urged to remain composed and assist in transporting the patient safely.
