Forensic Medicine · Toxicology — Specific Poisons

Snake Bite — Clinical Features & Management

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Clinical Features According to Type of Venom

Cobra and Krait (Neurotoxic)

  • Ptosis.
  • Diplopia.
  • Dysphagia.
  • Respiratory paralysis.

Viper Bite (Hemotoxic)

  • Pain and swelling.
  • Bleeding manifestations.
  • Coagulopathy.
  • Shock.

Sea Snake Bite (Myotoxic)

  • Muscle pain.
  • Myoglobinuria.
  • Paralysis.
  • Renal failure.

First Aid

  1. Reassure the patient — keep the patient calm; avoid panic.
  2. Immobilization — immobilize the affected limb; keep the limb at rest.
  3. Transport — shift the patient rapidly to hospital.
Caution

Measures to Avoid — Do NOT:

  • Incise the wound.
  • Suck the wound.
  • Apply chemicals.
  • Apply ice.
  • Use tight arterial tourniquets.