While Australia often comes to mind when considering dangerous animals, Texas also hosts its share of venomous creatures. From the infamous Black Widow Spider to the Lone Star Tick, Texas offers enough terrifying animals and insects to make anyone reconsider a leisurely walk in the Texan wilderness.
However, if you wish to protect your kidneys and ensure your survival, the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake is an animal to avoid at all costs. Though this reptile won’t actively pursue or strike first, it may bite if you accidentally step on it or make it feel threatened. Such a bite can inject up to 800 milligrams of venom. While it may not be instantly fatal, it can cause severe renal damage and eventual death. Therefore, even if the bite seems minor, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
What to know about Western Diamondback Rattlesnake venom
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, out of the 7,000 to 8,000 people bitten by venomous snakes annually in the U.S., around five do not survive. Among those who receive timely medical treatment, up to 44% suffer lifelong injuries from the incident. In the case of the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, once its venom enters the bloodstream, it quickly triggers coagulation, transforming the blood from a liquid to a thicker or more solid state (clotting), which can permanently damage the kidneys, as noted by the World Health Organization. Due to its effects on the bloodstream, fatal hemorrhages, tissue damage, and limb amputation are also possible.
Initially, you may experience symptoms such as sweating, nausea, swelling, and breathing difficulties, which can vary in severity depending on the amount of venom injected. As for your kidneys and other organs, it may take a few days before they are impacted. Therefore, it’s crucial not to dismiss a bite from a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, as it is genuinely a matter of life or death.
How to treat a rattlesnake bite
Once you realize you’ve been bitten, it is crucial to seek medical treatment immediately, whether by calling 911 or having someone drive you to the emergency room. Meanwhile, there are specific actions you should avoid to prevent worsening the situation.
Firstly, do not attempt to suck out the venom. Despite its depiction in movies, it is ineffective in real life. Even if you have a snakebite kit, according to UCI Health, these kits are ineffective and can cause more harm than good. Also, refrain from applying ice to the bite, as it will not help. Regardless of the pain or swelling, ibuprofen will not assist, so avoid any medication. However, it’s advisable to cover the bite with a loose bandage or clean cloth to prevent infection and keep it clean. Lastly, try to remain calm. Snakebite fatalities are rare, as it takes several hours for venom to cause its damage. Therefore, if you’ve called 911 or are en route to the ER, you’re likely to survive. The only effective treatment for a venomous snakebite is antivenom therapy.
