Snake bites should always be taken seriously. Though some are dry bites, which aren't as dangerous and will likely cause some swelling, others are venomous bites, which, if not treated carefully and quickly, can result in death. Always seek immediate medical attention if you've been bitten by a snake, as it could be a matter of life and death.

According to the CDC, about 8,000 snakebites happen in the U.S. each year. Even a bite from a "harmless" snake can cause infection or allergic reaction in some people. For your safety, treat all snakebites as if they were venomous and get to a hospital emergency room as quickly as possible.

Signs or symptoms of a snake bite may vary depending on the type of snake, but may include: Puncture marks at the wound Redness, swelling, bruising, bleeding, or blistering around the bite Severe pain and tenderness at the site of the bite

Most snakebites occur on the extremities. Typical symptoms of the bite from a nonvenomous snake are pain and scratches at the site. Usually, after a bite from a venomous snake, there is severe burning pain at the site within 15 to 30 minutes. This can progress to swelling and bruising at the wound and all the way up the arm or leg.

Bites by venomous snakes result in a wide range of effects, from simple puncture wounds to life-threatening illness and death. The early effects of a venomous snakebite can be misleading. A victim...

Venomous snake bites can produce an array of symptoms, including localized pain and swelling, convulsions, nausea, and even paralysis. First aid steps you can take after a snake bite occurs include...

Snakebite symptoms include pain and swelling. These start at the wound site and may or may not travel up the bitten appendage. Sometimes, you develop a muscle twitch. In an ideal venomous snakebite situation, the victim should sit down and rest, keeping the wound below heart level, while an ambulance is called.

Venomous snakes are distributed unevenly throughout the United States — the vast majority of snake bites occur in warm weather states. States like Florida and Texas have a wide variety and large population of venomous snakes. Bites from venomous snakes are extremely rare in the states near the Canada–US border.

Move the person beyond striking distance of the snake. Have the person lie down with wound below the heart. Keep the person calm and at rest, remaining as still as possible to keep venom from...