22/10/2025
Hemotoxic venom:
Hemotoxic venom's effects include damaging blood vessels and red blood cells, leading to swelling and bleeding. It also disrupts the body's ability to clot blood, which can cause either excessive bleeding or dangerous internal clotting. The venom can damage tissues and organs, potentially leading to necrosis, heart attacks, stroke, or heart failure.
Examples of hemotoxic snakes:
🐍Vipers: This family includes many hemotoxic snakes, such as rattlesnakes (e.g., Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake), copperheads, and the Russell's viper.
🐍Boomslang: This snake has hemotoxic venom that thins the blood, causing bleeding and vascular damage.
🐍Vine Snake: Another snake with hemotoxic venom.
What to do after a bite
1️⃣Seek immediate medical attention: Due to the severe and rapid effects of the venom, it is critical to get to a hospital as quickly as possible.
2️⃣Antivenom is key: The primary treatment is antivenom, which helps neutralize the venom's effects.
3️⃣Monitor for symptoms: Be aware of symptoms, which can include pain at the bite site and signs of internal bleeding.