Poisonous Snake Bites Not Common Here

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Rattlesnake

This is the rattlesnake that bit Mrs. Tennessee in Arizona. It is not the same type rattlesnake common to the Upper Cumberland.

By Jill Bolling, RN

Story Published: Sep 6, 2007 at 1:57 AM CDT

Story Updated: Sep 17, 2007 at 9:48 PM CDT

Poisonous snakebites happen to nearly 8,000 Americans each year. Bites of this nature can lead from skin irritation to infection and in some rare cases, even death.
Surprisingly though these bites are not common in this area.

“We have seen about 10 poisonous snakebites in the ER this summer,” states Sullivan Smith, ER physician.

In fact, of the four poisonous snakes commonly found in the United Sates, only two are found in this area, the copperhead and the timber rattlesnake.

There are many myths about treating poisonous snakebites, but there are some proven treatments as well.

“The really only good treatment for these bites is anti-venom,” says Dr. Smith. “Do not cut snake bites, do not suck the venom out. You can actually suck the venom into your mouth and if you have a cavity, you can become poisoned.”

Despite the myths about snakebites, the good news according to Dr Smith is that most healthy people do not die from them.

Ray Jordan of the TN Tech Biology department says, “They are not going to pursue a human.”

A little common sense can go a long way with preventing snakebites. There are certain, common areas that you will find snakes. Avoid rock walls, woodpiles, and lakeshores.

So what do you do when someone does get a bite from poisonous snake?

“Try to stay calm and get the person to the hospital as soon as possible,” states Dan Combs of the TN Tech Biology department. “Also, if you leave them alone then they will leave you.”

Dr. Smith says, “Try to get a look at the snake if you can as that can help with the treatment but don’t try to bring the snake with you or risk being bitten again.”

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