Snakes are a vital part of our ecosystem, controlling pests and maintaining balance in nature. Yet, encounters with them can be frightening, especially in rural regions like Kerala, where snake sightings are common. Every year, thousands of people across India experience snake bites, and many panic, not knowing whether it’s venomous or non-venomous.
At Thangam Hospital, Palakkad, home to a highly equipped toxicology department in Kerala, our experts handle snake bite emergencies with precision, speed, and compassion. Understanding the difference between venomous and non-venomous bites and knowing what to do immediately can save lives.
Let’s explore how to identify, react, and recover safely.
Understanding Snake Bites: Venomous vs Non-Venomous
The first question that arises after a snake bite is simple: Was it venomous? The answer determines how urgently medical attention is needed and what treatment to follow.
Venomous Snakes
Venomous snakes inject toxins into the body through their fangs. These toxins can affect blood clotting, the nervous system, or tissue around the bite. Common venomous snakes in Kerala include:
- Cobra
- Russell’s viper
- Krait
- Saw-scaled viper
Their bites can be life-threatening and require immediate snake bite treatment in Kerala at a hospital equipped with antivenom and emergency care facilities.
Non-Venomous Snakes
Non-venomous snakes, on the other hand, do not inject venom. Their bites might cause minor wounds, swelling, or mild infection — but they are not poisonous. Still, medical evaluation is recommended, as infection or allergic reactions can develop.
At Thangam Hospital, our specialists treat both venomous and non-venomous bite cases with equal care, ensuring no risk is overlooked.
How to Identify a Venomous Bite
While it’s not always possible to identify the snake, observing bite symptoms can give important clues.
- Fang Marks
Venomous snakes usually leave two distinct puncture wounds (fang marks), while non-venomous bites may leave a U-shaped pattern or shallow tooth marks.
- Pain and Swelling
Rapid swelling, intense pain, or bruising at the bite site can indicate venom. Non-venomous bites are generally less painful and have slower or no swelling.
- Systemic Symptoms
Venomous bites often cause symptoms beyond the bite area:
- Blurred vision or drooping eyelids
- Difficulty breathing
- Drowsiness or confusion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weakness or paralysis
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
These signs signal that venom has entered the bloodstream, and immediate hospital care is essential.
What to Do Immediately After a Snake Bite
Quick and correct action can make a life-saving difference.
Step 1: Stay Calm
Panic increases heart rate and spreads venom faster. Try to stay as still and calm as possible.
Step 2: Immobilize the Affected Limb
Keep the bitten limb below heart level and minimize movement. Avoid tying tight bands or tourniquets, which can worsen tissue damage.
Step 3: Remove Constrictive Items
Remove rings, bangles, watches, or tight clothing near the bite area, as swelling may increase.
Step 4: Clean, Don’t Cut
Gently clean the wound with water. Do not cut, suck out venom, or apply ice or chemicals.
Step 5: Seek Medical Help Immediately
Go to the nearest hospital equipped for snake bite treatment in Kerala, like Thangam Hospital, without delay. Carry the snake (if safely possible) or take a photo for identification, but never waste time or take risks catching it.
What Not to Do After a Snake Bite
There are several myths about snake bites that can be dangerous. Avoid these at all costs:
- Do not use tourniquets or tight ropes.
- Do not try to suck out venom with your mouth.
- Do not apply herbal remedies or chemicals.
- Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
- Do not attempt to catch or kill the snake.
Getting to a hospital with a toxicology department in Kerala as quickly as possible is the safest approach.
What Happens at the Hospital: Thangam Hospital’s Approach
At Thangam Hospital, Palakkad, we follow evidence-based, internationally approved protocols for snake bite treatment in Kerala. Our emergency and toxicology department is equipped to handle even severe envenomation cases with precision and speed.
Here’s what typically happens when a snake bite victim arrives at Thangam:
- Assessment and Stabilization
Our emergency team first checks vital signs (breathing, pulse, and blood pressure) and stabilizes the patient. The type of snake bite (neurotoxic, hemotoxic, or cytotoxic) is assessed through clinical evaluation and lab tests.
- Antivenom Administration
If the bite is confirmed venomous, polyvalent antivenom is administered. This serum neutralizes venom from India’s major venomous snakes. The dosage depends on the severity of symptoms.
- Monitoring and Supportive Care
Patients are closely monitored in our ICU for allergic reactions, breathing difficulty, or signs of internal bleeding. Ventilator support, fluids, and pain management are provided as needed.
- Wound Care and Infection Control
The bite site is cleaned, and antibiotics may be given to prevent infection.
- Rehabilitation and Counseling
Recovery support, physiotherapy, and counseling help patients regain confidence after the trauma of a snake bite.
Thangam Hospital’s multidisciplinary approach (combining emergency medicine, critical care, and toxicology expertise) ensures complete, compassionate care.
When to Suspect a Snake Bite Emergency
You should rush to the hospital immediately if you experience any of these symptoms after a suspected bite:
- Rapid swelling or intense pain near the bite
- Dizziness or fainting
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Numbness or tingling in lips or limbs
- Bleeding from gums, nose, or wounds
- Unexplained drowsiness or weakness
Even if symptoms seem mild, never wait to see if they worsen. Some snake venoms act slowly, and early antivenom therapy gives the best outcomes.
Preventing Snake Bites: Simple Safety Tips
Kerala’s lush greenery and farmlands make snake encounters likely. Here are a few ways to stay safe:
- Wear shoes and long pants when walking in grassy or rocky areas.
- Use a flashlight at night when walking outdoors.
- Avoid putting hands into holes, crevices, or under logs.
- Keep your home surroundings clean and rodent-free.
- Educate children about staying calm and still if they spot a snake.
Prevention is the first line of protection, but knowing where to go for help is equally vital.
Conclusion: Act Fast, Stay Calm, Save Lives
A snake bite doesn’t have to be fatal. The difference between recovery and danger lies in how quickly and correctly action is taken.
At Thangam Hospital, we’re committed to providing prompt, accurate, and compassionate snake bite treatment in Kerala. Our advanced toxicology department in Kerala stands ready 24/7 to manage emergencies, from venomous bites to poisoning and other toxic exposures.
Timely care saves lives; every minute counts.
