Rattlesnake Bite Treatment

There are some common misconceptions about the treatment of  rattlesnake bites. While waiting for the ambulance, here's how to minimize your risk:

• Don't raise the area above the level of the heart. If you do this, your blood containing rattlesnake venom will reach your heart more quickly.
• Stay as still as possible, as movement will increase your blood flow and the venom will circulate faster.
• Remove any tight clothing or jewelry before you start to swell.
• Let the wound bleed, as this may allow some of the venom to be released.
• Don't wash the wound, as your medical team may be able to use some of the venom from your skin to more quickly identify the correct antivenin.
• Place a clean bandage on the wound.
• Try to remain calm, as anxiety and panic can increase your heart rate, which will cause the venom to spread.
• If you begin to experience signs of shock, try to lie down on your back, raise your feet slightly, and keep warm.
• Don't cut the wound, as this doesn't help and you could cause an infection.
• Don't try to suck the venom from the wound, as you then introduce the venom to your mouth as well as introduce the bacteria from your mouth to the wound.
• Don't use a tourniquet or apply ice or water.