The Truth About Using Cloth to Stop Snake Venom Spread
Many times in India, people believe such beliefs to be true without any scientific basis, which can prove to be dangerous for their health. Especially when it comes to snakebites, various misconceptions are spread about them. Whether the snake is poisonous or not, it is very important to take the right steps after its bite. But many people immediately believe in some home remedy or superstition, due to which the patient's condition can worsen.
One of these common beliefs is that if a snake bites, then immediately that place should be tied tightly with a cloth or rope so that the poison does not spread in the body.
Let us tell you that Onlymyhealth is running a series called Superstition or Science" to tell about such myths related to health and the science hidden behind superstitions. Under this series, we are trying our best to tell you the science and scientific facts related to such superstitions.
Does tying a tight cloth on a snake bite prevent the spread of poison?
The fear of snakebites causing poison to spread is so deep-rooted in people that many times people adopt wrong methods without any scientific information, such as tying the bitten area tightly with a cloth. This misconception is very common, and this question is also often asked: "Does tying a tight cloth on a snake bite prevent the spread of poison?"
Doctors say that tying a tight cloth on a snake bite is a completely wrong method. Doing this can make the situation even more serious instead of stopping the spread of poison. When a body part is tied tightly, the arteries there get blocked, and due to this, blood circulation stops. This can cause gangrene to develop in that part of the body.
In many places in India, there is a practice of treating snake bites with exorcism, tantra-mantra, and indigenous remedies. These wrong practices can put the patient's life in danger. Snake venom gets mixed in the blood and acts quickly. It cannot be removed by exorcism. Only anti-venom is its right treatment.
What should be done immediately if a snake bites?
Keep the bitten area stable.
Prevent the patient from walking so that the venom spreads slowly.
Take the patient to the nearest hospital as soon as possible.
Do not try any home remedy or exorcism without consulting a doctor.
How many types of snake venom are there?
About 300 species of snakes are found in India, many of which are poisonous. Based on the venom of poisonous snakes, they are divided into three main types-
About 300 species of snakes are found in India, many of which are poisonous. Poisonous snakes are divided into three main types based on their venom-
1. Neurotoxic Snakes
This venom affects the nervous system, and the body slowly starts getting paralyzed (organs stop functioning). Also, the patient's voice starts changing, and eyes start closing.
2. Hemotoxic Snakes
It destroys blood cells. Internal bleeding starts, and blue-black marks appear on the body.
3. Cardiotoxic Snakes
This venom directly affects the heart and blood circulation, and the patient may suffer a heart attack.
Symptoms after snake bite -
Pain and swelling at the bitten area
Dizziness and weakness
Muscle cramps and tingling
Difficulty breathing
Losing consciousness and falling unconscious
Treatment of children and adults on snake bite:
The doctor explained that there is no difference in the dosage for children and adults in the treatment of snake bites. Rather, children sometimes have to be given higher doses. This is because their body can absorb the effect of the poison faster. Therefore, anti-venom should be used immediately, even in the case of children.