Some snakes, like the coral snake, deliver a different kind of venom altogether. Instead of targeting tissue, their toxins go after your nervous system, causing droopy eyelids, tingling in the fingers or toes, difficulty swallowing, and muscle weakness. These symptoms aren’t just bizarre; they’re dangerous, and they signal the need for emergency care.
Dry bite
Sometimes there’s also a dry bite, which is when a snake digs his fangs into the skin without injecting any venom.
Knowing the difference between bite types and recognizing symptoms early can make all the difference.
“Most deaths from venomous snake bites occur because the person had an allergic reaction to the venom or is in poor health, or because too much time passed before he or she received medical care,” warns the American Red Cross.
What to do if you’re bitten by a snake
1. Stay calm: It’s easier said than done, but staying calm helps keep your heart rate down, which can slow the spread of venom.Continue reading…
