✦ First aid
Snakebite — First Aid
A snakebite is life-threatening. The only treatment is antivenom in hospital. First aid exists only to get the person there safely and fast.
Not yet reviewed by a physician Emergency
🚑 Emergency? Call 1990 (Suwa Seriya ambulance) or go to the nearest hospital.
Traditional remedies never replace emergency care.
Go to hospital / call 1990 if
- EVERY snakebite — even without symptoms — goes to hospital
Traditionally used for
- Fang marks, pain, swelling
- Drooping eyelids, trouble swallowing, bleeding (serious signs)
What to do
- Call 1990 Suwa Seriya immediately or go to the nearest hospital.
- Keep the person calm and as still as possible.
- Immobilise the bitten limb with a splint or sling.
- Remove rings, bangles, shoes and tight clothing.
- Note the time. Take a photo only from a safe distance — do not try to catch or kill the snake.
Home treatment
- How it is used
- No home medicine
- Adults
- No home medicine — hospital immediately
Do NOT
- Do NOT cut, suck or burn the wound.
- Do NOT apply a tourniquet.
- Do NOT delay going to hospital for herbs, snake stones or traditional visha vedakama.
- No alcohol, ice or aspirin.
Precautions
- Carry the person rather than letting them walk.
Important note:
The information here is shared only to pass on traditional knowledge. It is not a specific medical treatment or a guarantee of recovery. Always consult a qualified doctor about any health condition.