Snake and Lizard Bites

Emergencies

Yes	Do you have any of the following symptoms that require emergency treatment? Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

• Bite from a known or suspected poisonous snake or lizard
• Signs of shock:
  • In children
  • In adults and older children
• Moderate to severe breathing problems:
  • In children
  • In adults and older children
• Changes in level of consciousness, such as unconsciousness, confusion, or extreme sleepiness
• Severe immediate pain with rapid swelling at the site of the bite
• Numbness or tingling at or near the bite site or around the mouth, tongue, scalp, or feet
• Drooling, slurred speech, or rapid swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat

Note: Take the following immediate first aid steps after a suspected poisonous snake or lizard bite:

• Remain calm.
• Do not use any type of tourniquet.
• Do not use any type of extraction device.
• Keep the bitten extremity in a neutral position if possible. You do not need to raise it or lower it below the level of the heart.

Check Your Symptoms

If you answer yes to any of the following questions, click on the "Yes" in front of the question for information about how soon to see a health professional.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Note:

If you are not sure what type of snake or lizard bit you, call the Poison Control Center immediately to help identify the snake or lizard and determine the next steps to take. Medicine to counteract the effects of the poison (antivenom) can save a limb or your life.

Yes	Have you been bitten by a large nonpoisonous snake, such as a boa constrictor, python, or anaconda?
Yes	Do you think you have an infection at the site of a bite?
Yes	Do you think a snake's or lizard's tooth is still in the wound?
Yes	Do you know or think you need a tetanus shot?
Yes	Have your symptoms continued after home treatment or medical treatment?

Other Symptoms to Watch For

Do you have the following symptom?

• Bleeding from a snake or lizard bite: Go to one of the following topics:
  • Cuts
  • Puncture Wounds

If a visit to a health professional is not needed immediately, see the Home Treatment section for self-care information.

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Author:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA	Last Updated: July 20, 2006
Medical Review:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Sean P. Bush, MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine and Envenomation Specialist
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