Protect your eyes from long-term damage when a snake strikes
A new year snake attack left an unlucky Onderstepoort resident with venom in the eyes. These safety tips could help in the case of a snake attack.
After a new year snake attack left an unlucky Onderstepoort resident with venom in the eyes, Best Care Emergency Medical Service released the below safety tips on what to do in such a case.
According to Best Care, an ambulance was called to help the victim on January 2.
“After administering initial care at the scene, our team took the person to the hospital.”
Here are their safety tips on what to do in case of a snake attack:
– Should venom enter your eyes, it is important to remove or dilute it due to the excessive pain that it causes.
– Place the victim’s head under a slow-running tap, while forcing open the eyes to allow the water to wash the poison out. This should be done for 15-20 minutes before taking the victim to the doctor, who then will perform a slit-lamp exam and prescribe a local anaesthetic and antibiotic eye drops.
– Water is preferable, but mild liquids such as milk or beer are a good substitute should water be unavailable at the given time.
– Seek medical attention immediately as long-term damage could result.
To report any medical emergency, contact Best Care at 082 402 1416.
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