Dr. Kerr: Awareness and avoidance prevent snake bites

<p>Wet storms are abating and spring fever is luring us outside. Northern California is perfect for hiking, camping and enjoying family picnics this time of year.</p><p>But we are not the only ones basking in the warmth. We share this land with many other creatures, and in spring and summer some — like snakes — can be a hazard.</p><p>Snake bites affect 4,000 to 6,000 people each year in the United States, and 70 percent of those people will need treatment with antivenom. Most snakes are harmless to humans and valuable to the local ecosystem.</p><p>However, in Northern California, rattlesnakes present a significant risk.</p><p>Protecting yourself from snake bites while enjoying the great outdoors starts with awareness and avoidance.</p><p>Most bites are caused by inattention or foolish play. Some never saw the snake prior to stepping in the wrong spot, but most were “playing” with one and foolishly got too close. </p><p>Seriously, avoid them. While some find it fascinating to taunt a snake, the wise person does not approach them. And don't expect them to make any noise — they don't always have time to warn before striking.</p><p>If you plan to trudge through brush or high weeds, it makes sense to wear long pants and boots that cover the ankle. Before stepping over logs, rocks or holes in the ground, look to be sure it is clear on the other side. </p><p>Snakes like to bask in the sun in the morning and the evening, and they hide in shady spots during the hottest times of day.</p><p>Even a careful person can accidentally surprise a snake and suffer a strike. If you are unlucky enough to surprise a snake into biting, the first aid you perform can save your life.</p><p>The goal of snake-bite first aid is to buy time. Strikes are defensive and usually not deep because the snake simply wants to strike and slither away. The venom goes into the superficial capillaries first and then makes its way to the main bloodstream. Your first-aid goal is to keep the venom from spreading too far before you get medical care.</p><p>Most important: Remain calm! This is not going to be easy to do, but remember that adrenaline causes increased blood flow and increased heart rate — and both of these will work against you in your efforts to buy time.</p><p>If you have a cell phone with you, first use it to call 911 and get help on its way.</p><p>Then, if possible, use the camera in your phone to take a picture of the snake that bit you. That photo may help define your treatment.</p><p>Swelling is the first significant symptom of a snake bite. Remove or loosen any clothing or jewelry that may get tight as the area swells, and then place wide and snug bands on either side of the bite site. </p><p>These bands should not restrict blood flow, but will help restrict the spread of venom. If swelling develops and makes these bands tight, loosen them so blood flow is not affected.</p><p>Do not elevate the area that was injured. Keep it below the level of your heart.</p><p>Do not cut the bite and try to suck out venom, and don't use “Snake bite kits.” Cutting will cause unnecessary damage and opens the wound to secondary infections. </p><p>Don't apply a meat tenderizer to “draw out the venom.” Both of these are ineffective and risky remedies that waste valuable time.</p><p>Not all snake bites are poisonous, and not all poisonous snakes will release venom when they strike. But if they do, you will know because the affected area will swell dramatically. </p><p>Treatment at a hospital manages symptoms with supportive therapy and, if necessary, includes the use of antivenom.</p><p>Poisonous snake bites are rare, but when they occur, knowing how to respond is critical. </p><p>Stay healthy by enjoying the outdoors with due respect for the wildlife that shares it with us.</p><p>Dr. Stacey Kerr, a longtime Sonoma County family physician, graduated from UC Davis Medical School and has been certified in her specialty by the American Board of Family Medicine. Her columns are not intended as a substitute for hand-on medical advice or treatment. Consult your health care provider before adhering to any recommendations in this column. Email comments to drkerr@the-doctors-inn.com.</p>