Signs of Rattlesnake (Pit viper) bite

Description

Pit Vipers are the most prevalent family of poisonous snakes in the United States and include rattlesnakes, water moccasins and copperheads. The venom is a complex mixture of enzymes, which varies from species to species, and is designed to immobilize, kill, and digest the snake's prey. The venom works by destroying tissue, and is capable of causing significant and disfiguring local tissue damage. Deaths in the United States are rare and limited almost entirely to children and the elderly. The Mohave rattlesnake is different than the other Pit Vipers and has a potent neurotoxin and produces a different set of symptoms.

Symptoms

Local pain and swelling at the bite, swelling of the entire affected body part, severe allergic reactions are rare, but may occur in those previously exposed. The Mohave rattlesnake causes the following symptoms: confusion, weakness, numbness, weakness, facial droop, fainting, low blood pressure.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests will be done to determine the severity of envenomation.

Standard Workup

CBC
Chem 12
Troponin
UA
X-Ray
EKG

Treatment

Crotaline Fab antivenom (CroFab) is the antivenom that is most often used. The decision to administer the antivenom and how much is given is dependent on the symptoms being experience. For more information and help call your poison center at 1-800-222-1222.