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cottonmouths
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by Marti on July 30, 2001
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What are the reactions to a cottonmouth bite? What are the 1st things that should be done for treatment, besides the obvious reaction of getting medical attention? My children play in 3's @ the creek in the woods and I would like for them to know what to do should any of them ever get bitten while playing. Thanks!
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RE: cottonmouths
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by filthy on July 30, 2001
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Hi Marti,
You didn't give your location. Are you sure there are indeed Cottons in your area? There are several species of Watersnake that get called, "Cottonmouth" in many places where none occure. Let us know and we'll tell you for sure.
Ok, the best and really only first aid for any venomous snake bite is the shortest route to the hospital. DON'T apply a ligature (tourniquet) of any kind. The swelling will stop the blood flow down the bitten limb and possibly cause gangrene. I have a friend who lost his right hand in just this way. Keep the bitten limb low. A child will be very frightened, so try and keep him / her calm. Don't try to apply suction. The tiny bit of venom you might get out will make little difference and time is most important. The same applies to cutting the bite. Just get in the car and GO. If it can be done quickly, have someone call the hospital and tell them what to expect.
To a healthy adult, A Cotton bite is pretty much survivable, but a child could succumb easily.
Again, perhaps we can set your mind at rest. What area do you live in? We'll read you chapter and verse on the hot snakes in your area.
luck,
f
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