Water moccasins, also known as cottonmouths (Agkistrodon piscivorus), are venomous snakes found in aquatic and semi-aquatic environments of the southeastern United States. These pit vipers inhabit swamps, marshes, and river floodplains. Understanding the potential effects of a bite is important for those in its habitat. This article explains what happens if a water moccasin bites a person and outlines the necessary steps.
Signs and Symptoms of a Water Moccasin Bite
A water moccasin bite causes immediate, intense pain at the envenomation site. This pain is accompanied by swelling, which spreads rapidly from the bite area. The skin around the bite may show discoloration, from redness to purplish bruising, and blistering can develop within hours. One or two distinct fang marks are often visible, though sometimes only one or scratch marks may appear.
Beyond local effects, systemic symptoms may occur as the venom affects the body. These can include nausea, vomiting, weakness, dizziness, or excessive sweating. It is important to distinguish a venomous bite from a non-venomous one. Non-venomous snake bites often leave multiple small teeth marks without significant pain or swelling, while a water moccasin bite causes pronounced and progressive symptoms.
First Steps After a Bite
If a water moccasin bite occurs, remain calm and move safely away from the snake. Immediately call 911 or your local emergency services to ensure professional medical help is on the way. While waiting for assistance, remove any jewelry or tight clothing near the bitten area, as swelling occurs rapidly. Keep the bitten limb as still as possible and, if practical, positioned below the level of the heart, to help slow venom spread.
Avoid certain actions after a bite. Do not apply a tourniquet, as this concentrates venom and leads to severe tissue damage. Cutting the wound or trying to suck out venom is ineffective and can introduce infection. Avoid applying ice or consuming alcohol or caffeine, as these can worsen the situation or interfere with treatment.
Professional Medical Intervention
Upon arrival at a medical facility, healthcare professionals will assess the bite to determine the extent of envenomation. This assessment involves monitoring vital signs, evaluating the progression of swelling and discoloration, and conducting blood tests. These tests help gauge how the venom is affecting blood clotting and other bodily functions. The medical team will also inquire about the snake’s appearance and the circumstances of the bite.
The primary treatment for water moccasin envenomation is antivenom, specifically CroFab. CroFab works by introducing antibodies that bind to and neutralize venom components in the bloodstream. Antivenom dosage and administration are determined by symptom severity and patient response. Supportive care, including pain management, wound care to prevent infection, and continuous monitoring for potential complications, will also be provided.
Potential Health Outcomes
With prompt and appropriate medical care, most individuals bitten by a water moccasin make a full recovery. However, the recovery process can be lengthy, sometimes requiring several weeks or even months for complete resolution of symptoms and rehabilitation. The venom can cause significant tissue damage, leading to necrosis (tissue death) at the bite site, which may necessitate surgical debridement. Severe swelling can lead to compartment syndrome, a serious condition where pressure builds within muscles, potentially requiring a fasciotomy.
Secondary infections are a potential complication. While rare, severe envenomations can affect kidney function. The long-term impact depends on the amount of venom injected, the bite location, and how quickly medical treatment is initiated.