In case of a snake’s bite, it is important to maintain calm and act consciously – this can save life. This was stated by Associate Professor Ali Aigun, Head of the Department of Emergency Medicine of the Medical Department of the University of the Horde (ODü).
In the statement, Ayigun said that from 500 to 1000 cases of snake bites are registered in Turkey annually.
He noted that most snakes living in the country are not poisonous, and poisonous species are mainly found in rural areas of the eastern and southeastern Anatolia.
According to him, in the province of the Horde, cases of bites most often occur in the season of active agricultural work, especially when working in gardens and in the fields.
In this region, the bites of the snake-gadyuk are most often recorded.
Aigun explained what symptoms can appear within a few hours after the bite of the poisonous snake.
“severe pain at the place of bite, swelling, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, weakness, in rare cases – a change in consciousness and reduced pressure. In the case of a bite of an unhappy snake, only localized pain and insignificant edema are usually observed. In any case, you should immediately contact the nearest medical institution,” he said.
Speaking about first aid measures for the bite of the snake, he emphasized that you need to immediately call the number 112.
“The victim should move as little as possible and remain calm. The bitten limb should be kept below the level of the heart. Decorations, hours, rings must be removed so as not to interfere with the bloodstream with a possible edema. Before arriving at the hospital, you can apply cold through the fabric, for example, a towel. In no case should you cut the wound or try to suck the poison!”, He added.
He also recalled that snakes are part of nature.
“Do not forget: the snakes are afraid of us just like we are. If we respect their space, we can avoid danger. With a bit, the main thing is to maintain calm and act consciously. It can save life,” Ali said.
Aigun emphasized that the antidote is used only for the bites of poisonous snakes and in the presence of pronounced symptoms, since the unnecessary use of antitoxin can cause serious side effects. Therefore, the decision on its application should be made exclusively by the doctor.