Cottonmouth snake.
Cottonmouth snakes (also known as water moccasins) live in wetland regions throughout the South and Midwest United States. These snakes grow up to 48 inches in length and can be colored black, brown or olive with lighter stripes along the side. The cottonmouth's bite is venomous. Those bitten may experience several side effects.
Swelling Limbs
Snakebite victims' limbs swell as the body attempts to fight the venom's effects. Body fluid begin collecting around the puncture site, but can spread to other areas of the body quickly. Swelling is usually accompanied by redness and occasionally itching. Loosen the clothing around the affected area to provide the bite victim with relief.
Chills
Many snakebite effects closely resemble the symptoms of septic shock. Chills, shaking, and rapid heartbeat are all common in both cases. This is because in both and a venomous snake bite the body must rapidly respond to an infection that has spread throughout the blood and tissue. In situations where the victim has a compromised immune system, this shock to the system may be even more dangerous than the venom itself.
Paralysis
A paralysis patient loses muscle function in part or all of his body. For most cottonmouth snakebites, the paralysis caused by the injury gradually disappears after the wound has been treated. Rehabilitation of muscle control and coordination between muscles and brain is available for more difficult cases.
Tags: septic shock