Copperhead snake bites: Signs and symptoms

Monday, October 17, 2016

Chances are if you become a snake bite victim, it's the copperhead that most likely attacked you in the first place.

The North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension Service says copperhead snake bites are the most common, but the good news is copperhead venom is not usually very potent.

VIDEO: Art Rascon in the hospital after copperhead snake attack

Art Rascon is in a hospital this morning after he was attacked by a copperhead snake

As our own Art Rascon can attest, copperhead bites usually come without warning.

LiveScience.com says while many venomous snakes will give off a warning sign, copperheads have a nasty habit of striking almost immediately when they feel threatened.

Symptoms of copperhead snake bites

These bites are usually very painful, but it's extremely rare for a human to die from the bite.

The most severe consequence of a copperhead bite is temporary tissue damage at the site of the snakebite.

Girl bitten by copperhead snake, Miya Shay reports.

According to the CDC, you could see any or all of these symptoms:

A pair of puncture marks at the wound
Redness/swelling around the bite
Severe pain at the site of the bite
Nausea and vomiting
Labored breathing (in extreme cases, breathing may stop altogether)
Disturbed vision
Increased salivation and sweating
Numbness or tingling around your face and/or limbs

With all this in mind, experts say it is best to get immediate medical attention after a copperhead bite because some people may have strong reactions to the venom.