A snakebite becomes dangerous when the snake is venomous and injects venom into the body. Venom is not just one poison. It is a mixture of harmful substances, mostly proteins and enzymes, that can disturb how the body works. These substances are meant to weaken prey, but in humans, they can cause serious health problems.
Snake venom affects the body in different ways. Some venoms attack the nervous system. This can stop nerves from sending signals to muscles, leading to weakness, paralysis, or even trouble breathing. Other venoms affect the blood and circulatory system. They may destroy blood cells, cause internal bleeding, or prevent blood from clotting normally. Some venoms mainly damage body tissues, causing pain, swelling, and destruction of skin and muscles around the bite. Many snakes have venom that does more than one of these.
After a bite, venom can spread through the bloodstream. How serious the situation becomes depends on the type of snake, how much venom entered the body, where the person was bitten, and how quickly medical help is given. Without fast treatment, the venom can affect important organs and become life-threatening.
The main treatment for snakebite is antivenom. Antivenom is made by giving small, safe amounts of venom to animals such as horses. Their immune systems produce antibodies that fight the venom. Scientists collect these antibodies and prepare them as medicine. When a patient receives antivenom, it helps to neutralize the venom and reduce its harmful effects.
However, antivenom is not the same for every snake. Different snakes produce different venoms, so the correct type of antivenom must be used. Antivenom can also cause allergic reactions, so it must be given by trained medical workers. Besides antivenom, doctors may give oxygen, fluids, and other treatments to help the body recover and manage complications.
In conclusion, snakebite is a serious medical emergency because venom can affect the nerves, blood, and body tissues. Scientific treatment, especially the correct antivenom and quick medical care, is very important in saving lives and preventing severe damage.