Australia is home to some of the most venomous snakes in the world, including the Eastern Brown, Tiger Snake, and Inland Taipan. Knowing how to respond to a snake bite could mean the difference between life and death. Whether you’re exploring the bush, working outdoors, or simply enjoying your backyard, being prepared is essential.
Snake bites can cause severe symptoms within minutes, making immediate first aid critical while waiting for professional medical help. Understanding the signs and the correct treatment steps ensures you’re ready to act quickly in an emergency. Preparation and knowledge empower you to stay calm and provide potentially life-saving care when it matters most.
Recognising a Snake Bite: What Does It Look Like?
When faced with a suspected snake bite, you may wonder, what does a snake bite look like? The visual signs can vary depending on the snake and whether the bite is venomous or non-venomous.
Venomous snake bites often leave two distinct puncture marks where the fangs penetrated the skin. These may be accompanied by redness, swelling, bruising, or even slight bleeding. Over time, symptoms like pain, spreading discolouration, or a feeling of tightness around the bite site can develop.
Non-venomous snake bites, on the other hand, tend to display multiple small teeth marks in a more superficial pattern, with less swelling or bleeding. However, it’s critical not to assume a bite is harmless, as venom delivery isn’t always obvious.
In Australia, where venomous species are common, any snake bite must be treated as potentially life-threatening until proven otherwise. The body’s reaction to venom can escalate quickly, so identifying the bite and acting immediately can be lifesaving. If you’re unsure what the bite looks like, always look for puncture marks and monitor for swelling, pain, or discoloration spreading from the area.
Common Snake Bite Symptoms
Recognising snake bite symptoms early is crucial for effective treatment, as the severity of reactions can escalate rapidly. Symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the snake species, the amount of venom injected, and the victim’s response. According to Heath Direct some of the early and then Developed symptoms are.
Early symptoms
- Localised pain or a burning sensation around the bite site.
- Swelling, redness, or bruising spreading from the bite.
- Sweating.
- Tingling or numbness in the limbs or face.
If venom spreads further, severe snake bite symptoms can develop:
- Difficulty breathing due to respiratory paralysis.
- Nausea, or vomiting
- Weakness, dizziness, or collapse.
- Blurred vision or drooping eyelids.
- Paralysis starting at the bite site and spreading.
- Unconsciousness in extreme cases.
In Australia, symptoms can vary based on the species. For example, bites from Brown Snakes may cause rapid clotting issues and collapse, while Tiger Snakes often cause severe pain, sweating, and muscle paralysis. Red-bellied Black Snakes typically result in less severe systemic effects but still cause swelling and discomfort.
Regardless of the species, any snake bite symptoms should be treated as a medical emergency. Immediate first aid and professional care are vital to prevent life-threatening complications.
How to Bandage a Snake Bite: Pressure Immobilisation Technique (PIT)
If resuscitation is required, it takes precedence over applying the Pressure Immobilisation Technique (PIT). However, once resuscitation is underway, PIT should be applied as soon as possible to slow venom movement.
How to Apply PIT on a Limb:
- Apply a Pressure Bandage Over the Bite Site:
- Use a broad elasticised bandage (10–15 cm wide) if available. If not, crepe bandages, clothing, or other material can be used.
- The bandage should be firm and tight—you should not be able to slide a finger easily between the bandage and skin.
- Restrict Lymphatic Flow and Immobilise:
- Begin wrapping a second pressure bandage at the fingers or toes and extend upwards, covering as much of the limb as possible.
- Apply the bandage over existing clothing if possible.
- Alternatively, a single bandage can be applied starting at the fingers or toes and extending upward, including the bite site.
- Splint the Limb:
- Splint the limb, ensuring joints on both sides of the bite are immobilised.
- Incorporate the splint under the bandage layers if practical.
- For arm bites, place the limb in a sling.
- Keep the Victim Still:
- Bring transport to the victim whenever possible.
- If alone, the victim should apply the bandage, remain as immobile as possible, and seek urgent help.
If the Bite Is Not on a Limb:
Apply firm direct pressure to the bite site without restricting breathing, or chest movement however you must not apply firm pressure to the neck, or head.
Medical Treatment for Snake Bites
Once professional medical help is sought, snake bite treatment begins with a thorough assessment and the implementation of critical protocols to manage the situation effectively. Rapid hospitalisation is essential, as delays can lead to worsening symptoms and life-threatening complications.
In hospital, medical staff will:
- Assess the bite and symptoms: The team will monitor vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. Blood tests may be conducted to determine the severity of envenomation and identify the snake species.
- Administer antivenom: If symptoms indicate venom spread, antivenom is provided to neutralise toxins. The choice of antivenom depends on the type of snake, which can sometimes be determined through symptoms or identification. This treatment requires careful monitoring to manage potential allergic reactions.
- Manage pain and complications: Pain relief, intravenous fluids, and medications to control nausea or bleeding may be administered. In severe cases, life support measures like oxygen therapy or ventilation are provided.
- Continuous monitoring: Patients are closely observed for several hours or even days to ensure symptoms are stabilising. Blood clotting, paralysis progression, and vital organ function are carefully tracked.
Snake bite treatment focuses on immediate stabilisation, venom neutralisation, and managing symptoms. The quicker the patient reaches a hospital, the better the chances of a full recovery.
How to Prevent Snake Bites
Preventing snake bites begins with awareness and caution, whether you’re in urban gardens or rural bushland. Follow these tips to stay safe:
- Wear protective clothing: When walking or working in snake-prone areas, wear long pants, thick socks, and sturdy boots to reduce exposure.
- Stay on clear paths: Avoid tall grass, leaf piles, and rocks where snakes may hide. Use a stick to check areas ahead when walking in dense vegetation.
- Be cautious around water: Snakes often gather near creeks, ponds, and dams, especially during warm weather.
- Keep your surroundings clean: Clear debris, woodpiles, and overgrown areas near your home to reduce hiding spots.
- Use lights at night: Carry a torch to spot snakes in the dark.
By respecting snakes’ habitats and taking simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of snake bites.
Conclusion: Quick Action Saves Lives
Recognising snake bite symptoms and administering immediate first aid can make a life-saving difference. Acting quickly with the Pressure Immobilisation Technique (PIT) and seeking professional medical help ensures the best chance of recovery.
Whether you’re exploring the bush, working outdoors, or enjoying your backyard, being prepared is essential. Carry a first aid kit and stay informed about proper snake bite treatment.
Stay Prepared – Learn Life Saving First Aid
Being prepared for emergencies, such as snake bites, starts with the right knowledge and training. By completing a first aid course, you’ll gain the confidence and skills to handle snake bites, administer effective first aid, and respond to life-threatening situations calmly and efficiently.
At Life Saving First Aid, we equip you with practical, hands-on training to prepare you for real-world emergencies. Whether you spend time outdoors or simply want to protect those around you, learning first aid is a proactive step toward saving lives.
Act today – contact us to book your first aid course and be ready for any emergency.
