Knowra Snakebite envenoming Snakebite envenoming Snakebite envenoming is illness caused when venom injected by a snake disrupts normal body functions. Its effects range from local tissue injury to paralysis, bleeding, kidney failure, or death.
Snake venom : A mixture of biologically active substances produced by snakes and delivered through specialized fangs. Its toxins cause the local and systemic effects that define envenoming.
Antivenom : An antibody-based medicine that binds and neutralizes toxins in animal venom. It is the principal specific treatment for many serious snake envenomings.
Russell's viper : A venomous Asian viper whose bites can cause coagulopathy, bleeding, kidney injury, and local tissue damage. Its bites illustrate severe clotting disorders and acute kidney injury.
Snakebite mortality : Deaths caused by venomous snakebites and their complications. Deaths remain concentrated where rapid transport and effective treatment are limited.
Hemotoxicity : Toxic effects that disrupt blood clotting, damage blood vessels, or injure blood cells. Some venoms trigger bleeding or abnormal clotting through these effects.
Snakebite first aid : Immediate actions intended to limit harm after a snakebite before definitive medical care. Safe first aid avoids harmful practices while arranging urgent transport for assessment.
Saw-scaled viper : A small venomous viper found across parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Its bites are a major cause of envenoming, often involving abnormal clotting.
Snakebite morbidity : Illness and lasting impairment resulting from snakebite, including physical and psychological effects. Survivors may face chronic pain, disability, or lasting tissue damage.
Neurotoxicity : Damage or disruption of nervous-system function caused by a toxic substance. Neurotoxic venom can weaken muscles and impair breathing.
Snakebite diagnosis : Clinical assessment of a suspected snakebite, including signs of venom effects and laboratory findings. Treatment decisions depend on identifying systemic envenoming and monitoring its progression.
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