Avoiding snake bites in warmer weather

As the weather heats up in Texas, snake sightings also increase. Snakes can sun and feed anywhere, and they are harder to spot in tall grass. So as the days get warmer, keep these tips from Dr. Johnathan Conner with St. David’s Georgetown Hospital in mind. 

• The most common symptoms of snake bites are local swelling, pain and occasionally bruising. Signs of severe envenomation can also include nausea and vomiting, rapid heart rate, weak pulse, numbness or tingling around limbs, or labored breathing. 

• Familiarize yourself with the types of snakes that are commonly found in your area. In the event you are bitten by a snake, knowing the type of snake that bit you will be helpful to your medical team when determining a course of treatment. 

• Snakes, especially venomous snakes, have extremely quick reflexes and can retain those reflexes even hours after they are dead, which means they can still bite. If you see a snake that appears to be dead, do not touch it or try to move it. 

• It is important to seek medical attention for snake bites right away, especially if there is concern that the bite came from a venomous snake. 

Read the rest of the interview at Hello Georgetown.