Snakebite: Expert Mentions Actions That Reduces Victims’ Chances of Survival
- Dr. Amani-Hamman warns against outdated snakebite first aid methods like tying the limb
- Self-diagnosis after a snakebite can be dangerous; seek medical help immediately
- Victims should avoid activities that increase their heart rate to prevent venom spread
Legit.ng journalist Adekunle Dada has over 8 years of experience covering metro, government policy, and international issues
Gombe State - The Medical Director of the Snakebite Treatment and Research Hospital, Kaltungo, Gombe State, Dr Nicholas Amani-Hamman, said tying the affected limb with pieces of cloth after a snakebite is dangerous and outdated.
Amani-Hamman warned against the use of razor blades or sharp objects to extract supposed poison.
Source: Getty Images
According to Amani-Hamman, such actions are injurious and could reduce a victim’s chances of survival.
As reported by The Punch, he stated this while reacting to the tragic death of singer Ifunanya Nwangene in Abuja.
The medical director said first aid response is critical in snakebite cases, and the person should be told not to use the limb that is affected, not to tie the place.
Amani-Hamman reiterated the danger of tying the affected limb, saying:
“Tying a piece of cloth will localise venom in the affected part. It may block the blood supply in that particular region. Venom travels very fast; the venom is already moving around.”
The expert also dismissed concerns about intravenous fluids, stating that “Drip can’t worsen the condition; it doesn’t have adverse effects.”
Speaking further, he said snakebite victims should avoid activities that could increase their heart rate.
“Patients are advised not to cross a river. The reason is that when you cross a river, naturally, your heart rate increases, no matter how small the river is, and the venom will spread very fast."
Amani-Hamman warned victims against self-diagnosis after a snakebite.
“We advise that when someone is bitten and is unsure what it is, the person should come to the hospital so that we can confirm it.”
Source: Instagram
FCTA lists things to do after a snakebite
Recall that the Federal Capital Territory Authority (FCTA) outlines four critical steps for survivors after a snakebite incident.
The FCTA disclosed that antivenom supplies are fully stocked and accessible in government-owned hospitals and health centres.
The Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, said early administration of antivenom is vital, but does not guarantee full recovery.
Read more stories on snakebites:
- “Nigeria Failed You”: Brother of Late Singer Nanyah Recounts Her Final Moments After Snake Bite
- Nanyah’s Demise: Man Based in Abuja Shares Likely Entry Point of Snake That Killed Singer
- Nanyah: Doctor Shares One Main Reason Singer Couldn’t Survive Snake Bite Despite Rushing to Hospital
Snakebite: Abuja hospital reacts after Nanyah's death
Legit.ng earlier reported that FMC Abuja denied claims of anti-venom shortage in the treatment of Ms Ifunanya Lucy Nwangene.
The hospital management confirms immediate care and rapid response upon Nwangene's admission following a snake bite.
Tragic deterioration led to unsuccessful resuscitation efforts despite advanced medical interventions.
Source: Legit.ng
