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Snake Bite

Bites by venomous snakes are an emergency seen especially in rural Türkiye.

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Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Snake Bite?

Snake bite is the breaking of the skin by venomous or non-venomous species through their fangs. In Türkiye the viper (Vipera) group causes most envenomations; its haemotoxic venom can produce serious local and systemic disease.

The World Health Organization classifies snake bite as a neglected tropical disease responsible for more than 80,000 deaths each year. In Türkiye it is most common in the Aegean, Mediterranean, southeastern and central Anatolian regions.

Early hospital arrival, administration of antivenom and supportive therapy dramatically reduce mortality. Tourniquets, cutting the wound and oral suction must be avoided.

Symptoms

Two-fang puncture marks and rapidly spreading swelling
Severe pain and bruising
Nausea, vomiting and weakness
Hypotension, tachycardia and sweating
Coagulopathy and bleeding tendency
Compartment syndrome of the limb
Shock and renal failure in severe envenomation

Risk Factors

Field, forest or scrub work in rural areas
Walking through tall grass or under stones without gloves
Outdoor activities in spring and summer
Night-time hiking when snakes are active
Unsupervised outdoor play in children
Keeping or handling exotic snakes

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call 112 for any snake bite — venomous versus non-venomous decision is made in hospital
  • Severe pain or rapid swelling at the bite site
  • Nausea, vomiting, hypotension or altered consciousness
  • Bleeding from the bite or any other site
  • Bites in children, pregnant women or older adults

Treatment Methods

01
Keep the patient calm and immobilise the affected limb
02
Remove rings, bracelets and tight clothing before swelling progresses
03
Avoid tourniquets, cutting and oral suction
04
Hospital monitoring with serial laboratory tests
05
Antivenom in significant envenomation
06
Wound care, tetanus prophylaxis and supportive therapy

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.