Internal Medicine in Lagos
Snake Bites
The signs, what causes it, and when to see a internal medicine specialist in Lagos.
Signs to look for
Snake Bites
- Puncture marks, pain and swelling at the bite
- Bleeding from the bite, gums, nose or in urine
- Bruising spreading from the bite
- Nausea, vomiting or feeling faint
- Drooping eyelids, blurred vision, difficulty swallowing or breathing
Snake bites are a serious risk in parts of Nigeria, especially for farmers and people in rural areas. Bites from vipers such as the carpet viper can cause bleeding that does not stop, while bites from cobras and mambas can cause paralysis. Not every bite injects venom, but every bite should be treated as dangerous until a hospital has checked it. The treatment that saves lives is antivenom, given in hospital. Traditional remedies, cutting, sucking, tourniquets and the black stone waste time and can cause harm.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Puncture marks, pain and swelling at the bite
- Bleeding from the bite, gums, nose or in urine
- Bruising spreading from the bite
- Nausea, vomiting or feeling faint
- Drooping eyelids, blurred vision, difficulty swallowing or breathing
When to See a Doctor
Go to the nearest hospital emergency department now after any snake bite, even if you feel well, because symptoms can develop over hours. On the way: keep the person calm and still, keep the bitten limb still and at the level of the heart, remove rings and tight clothing, and note the time of the bite. Do not cut, suck, burn or apply a tourniquet, chemicals or a black stone.
Treatment options
- Keeping still and getting to a hospital fast
- Antivenom in hospital, matched where possible to the type of snake
- Blood tests to check clotting
- Support for breathing if paralysis develops
- A tetanus booster and wound care
Common Questions
Should I kill the snake to bring it to hospital?
No. It wastes time and risks another bite. A photo from a safe distance, if possible without delay, can help, but getting to hospital matters most.
Does the black stone work?
No. There is no evidence that it removes venom, and relying on it delays antivenom, which is what saves lives.
What if there is no antivenom at the nearest hospital?
Go there anyway for assessment and support. The staff can arrange transfer to a centre with antivenom while monitoring you.
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Internal Medicine in Lagos →Internal Medicine in Abuja →Internal Medicine in Port Harcourt →Internal Medicine in Jos →Internal Medicine in Ibadan →Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.