What are the common first aid myths associated with snake bites?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am curious to know about first aid myths associated with snake bites. Kindly answer the query as elaborately as possible with details of common myths you hear about first aid treatment and improper first aid care that makes the injury worse. I will happily accept any first aid guidance, even if you only know one or two myths. Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read the query, and I can understand your concern.

Snake bites are common in our country. Some of the myths I have seen and heard regarding snake bites are:

1) People suck out the blood from the snake bite wound. There is even a myth of a snake sucking out its blood.

2) They take the victim to tie some talismans to local preachers for snake bites instead of bringing them to doctors.

3) Some partially literate people try to block the poison by tourniquetting the area above the wound.

The above myths will make the victim more vulnerable and reduce their survival chance.

1) By putting the life of another person sucking the bite in danger. As we know, cobra venom is highly poisonous.

2) By delaying first assistance and early treatment, the victim's chances of survival are once more decreased.

3) secondary tissue ischemia and muscular injury due to prolonged tourniquet tie.

To overcome the challenges and improve the patient’s survival, people should immobilize the affected parts, mostly the limbs. They should wrap the whole part with a cloth or plastic instead of a tourniquet. They should seek prompt medical attention at the nearest hospital instead of going to some fake preachers.

I hope this will help you.

Thank you.