Jul 2, 2008 8:01 pm US/Mountain
Experts: Rattlesnake Venom Becoming More Potent
DENVER (CBS4) ―
Researchers are reporting unusually potent venom and deadlier reactions from rattlesnake bites in the western United States.
Researchers aren't sure why, but they are seeing more people go into shock from a bite. They tested the venom and it is the most powerful they've seen in years.
Each year about 25 people in Colorado get bitten by a rattlesnake.
"Fortunately, it's rare to hear of a death, but the reactions to a bite can be horrible," CBS4 Medical Editor Dr. Dave Hnida said. "In fact, last year five victims almost died. The reason may be rattlesnake venom is getting more toxic, so minutes matter if a snake sinks its fangs into you."
Avoiding a bite is the best defense by avoiding tall grasses, not reaching behind rocks or piles of wood, and keeping eyes open.
"(Watch) your step and remember, a snake doesn't need to be coiled to strike," Hnida said. "Most won't unless you bother it, so if you and a snake cross paths, give it a wide berth."
Hnida said the most important bits of advice heard over the years about treating a snake bite are probably wrong.
"(An) 'X' does not mark the spot. Don't cut into a snake bite unless you're a board-certified surgeon, otherwise you'll probably hit an artery, vein or tendon," he said.
Other advice Hnida gave was not to suck the venom out. It doesn't work and it may cause some venom to be absorbed in the body. He said not to apply cold or ice to a bite because it causes more tissue damage. Nor should a tourniquet be applied.
"Stay calm," Hnida said. "Not exactly always my favorite advice, but seriously do the best you can. You want to keep your heart rate down, which also means avoiding running or rapid walking."
The best treatment is anti-venom, and the only place to get it is at a hospital.
The other best treatment is to call 911.
"If you're out in the wilderness, many snake bite kits are not believed to be that effective by poison center experts, so have a plan in place before taking off," Hnida said.
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