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Snake bite on the finger
Snake bite on the finger
Snake bite on the finger
Snake bite on the finger
Snake bite
Snake bite
OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Snake bite

Alternative Names:
Bites - snakes

Considerations:

Each year in the U.S., there are over 8,000 poisonous snakebites -- mostly in the summer season.

Poisonous snake bites are medical emergencies, and they can be deadly if not treated quickly. Children are at higher risk for death or serious complications because of their smaller body size. However, the right anti-venom can save a victim's life. Getting the victim to an emergency room as quickly as possible is the top priority, as many snakebites if properly treated will not have serious effects.

Snake bites can cause severe local tissue damage and often require follow-up care.



Causes:

Poisonous snake bites include bites by any of the following:

  • rattlesnake
  • copperhead (water moccasin)
  • cottonmouth
  • coral snake
All snake species will bite when threatened or surprised, but most will usually avoid an encounter if possible and only bite as a last resort. Snakes found in and near water are frequently mistaken as being poisonous. Most species of snake are harmless and many bites will not be life-threatening, but unless you are absolutely sure that you know the species, treat it seriously.

Review Date: 8/12/2003
Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. editorial. Previously reviewed by Steven Angelo, M.D., Assistant Professor of Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (2/6/2003).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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