Chapter 2: What You Should NOT Do After a Snakebite

Snakebite first aid has been surrounded by myths for generations.

Some traditional methods can actually make the situation worse.

One of the most important rules is:

Do not cut the wound open.

Making an incision around the bite does not safely remove venom. It can cause additional tissue damage, bleeding, infection, and scarring.

Likewise, do not attempt to suck venom out of the wound.

There is no reliable evidence that using the mouth to suck venom from a snakebite removes a clinically meaningful amount of venom. It can also introduce bacteria into the wound and expose the rescuer to the victim's blood.

Another dangerous response is applying a tight tourniquet without appropriate medical guidance.

A tourniquet can severely restrict blood flow. If left in place for too long, it can contribute to tissue injury and other complications.

Similarly, avoid applying ice directly to the bite.

Extreme cold can damage tissue and does not neutralize venom.

Alcohol and other substances should also not be used as supposed antidotes.

Do not massage the bitten area.

Do not attempt to squeeze the wound.

Do not take unnecessary medications or traditional remedies in an attempt to neutralize venom.

And don't assume that a person is safe simply because they feel fine during the first few minutes.

Some venom effects can develop progressively.

Depending on the species, symptoms may include increasing pain and swelling, bruising, bleeding, weakness, drooping eyelids, difficulty speaking or swallowing, muscle weakness, vomiting, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

Some types of venom primarily affect the nervous system, while others can interfere with blood clotting or damage tissue.

The treatment therefore depends heavily on the snake species and the effects of its venom.

The most important thing a person at the scene can provide is time, calmness, and accurate information.

If it can be done without approaching the snake, a photograph taken from a safe distance may help medical professionals identify the species.

But don't risk another bite just to obtain a picture.

Your safety comes first.

Image 2 — Suggested image

Realistic photograph of a European emergency medical professional carefully examining a snakebite on an adult patient's lower leg in a clean emergency department. The wound is mild and non-graphic, with the patient's limb kept still. Professional medical environment, realistic documentary photography, no text, no logos, no watermark.