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Consequences of Snakebite
Warning: This page contains graphic images from real life snakebite cases


Snakebite envenomation can cause a variety of effects on the body, both local (at the site of the bite and adjacent tissue) and systemic (via circulatory system, involving distant, multiple organs of the body), as well as central nervous system complications.


Local Damage from Envenoming

Blistering from an eastern Sawscale Viper, Echis sochureki bite


Necrosis from a West African carpet viper, Echis ocellatus bite


Swelling from Hump-nosed viper, Hypnale hypnale bite. This species is responsible for the most bites in Sri Lanka, no antivenom has yet been developed against it.


The most critical consequences of snake bite envenoming include shock, spontaneous systemic bleeding, paralysis involving respiratory muscles, generalized break down of skeletal muscle (rhabdomyolysis), acute renal failure and infection of necrotic tissue at the site of the bite.

Systemic Effects

Gingival Bleeding


Lateralising Neurological Signs of Intracranial Bleeding


Bleeding from a Pre Existing Condition- Prolapsed Piles

The chemical composition of venom is complex, varying among different species and even within individuals of the same species. The damaging effects of envenomation may occur rapidly after a bite making the time between sustaining the bite and receiving appropriate medical treatment of paramount importance.

The above photos were taken from 'Snakebite Management in Asia and Africa- A guide to snakebite in the key areas for mortality and morbidity' Produced by the Pakistan Medical Research Council

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Top Photo: Rice paddy workers in Sri Lanka, by Kim McWhorter