SNAKEBITE IN THE RAINY SEASON: HOSPITAL IS THE SOLUTION, NOT SUPERSTITION

SNAKEBITE IN THE RAINY SEASON: HOSPITAL IS THE SOLUTION, NOT SUPERSTITION

18-JULY-ENG 20

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA--------------------------The monsoon season brings greenery and coolness, but the danger of poisonous snakes also increases during this time. Due to waterlogging or water getting into burrows, snakes come out in search of safe places and sometimes reach residential areas as well. In such a situation, incidents of snakebite become common. It is very important that in case of snakebite, do not believe in any kind of superstition or witchcraft, but immediately reach the nearest hospital.

During the rainy season, the natural habitats of snakes such as fields, bushes and burrows get filled with water. This makes them come closer to homes, cowsheds, and other human settlements in search of dry and high places. Therefore, special caution needs to be taken around the house and while going out in this season.

If a person is bitten by a snake, do not take any wrong step in panic. Remember, not every snake is poisonous and life can be saved by getting treatment at the right time.

Stay calm and don't panic: Panic increases blood circulation, which can cause the venom to spread faster. Try to keep the victim calm.

Keep the bitten part still: Move the part where the snake has bitten as little as possible. If possible, keep it below the heart level so that the spread of the venom is slow.

Remove tight clothes or jewelry: If there is any tight clothing or jewelry around the bitten area, remove it immediately, as it can cause problems if swelling occurs.

Don't tie a bandage: Never tie a tight bandage to prevent the venom from spreading. It can stop blood flow and damage the tissues.

Don't waste time, go straight to the hospital: The most important thing is to immediately take the victim to a government or private hospital where anti-venom injection is available, without wasting a single moment. Trusting exorcism, quacks or any kind of tricks can prove to be fatal.

Avoid superstition: Unfortunately, even today people in rural and many urban areas resort to exorcisms and sorcerers to treat snakebite. This is a serious mistake, because snake venom spreads rapidly in the body and delay in proper treatment increases the risk of death. Modern medicine has an effective anti-venom available for snakebite, which can save lives if given at the right time.

Precautions:-

 Do not allow bushes and garbage to pile up around the house.

Make adequate arrangements for lighting in the house and while going out.

Keep the bed above the ground while sleeping.

Dust your shoes before wearing them.

Wear shoes and thick clothes while working in the fields or going near bushes.

Remember, awareness and quick action are the biggest weapons to prevent snakebite. To save your life and the lives of your loved ones, trust science and not superstition and seek medical help immediately.