Depending on the species and venom involved, these substances may affect blood clotting, muscles, nerve function, and other organ systems.
The effects can vary significantly.
Some patients develop symptoms relatively quickly.
Others initially appear well before clinical signs become apparent.
Possible symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headache, abdominal discomfort, weakness, dizziness, blurred vision, and breathing difficulties.
Serious cases may involve collapse, paralysis, major disturbances in blood clotting, or organ injury.
The absence of dramatic pain or swelling does not rule out envenoming.
This is precisely why delaying medical attention to wait for symptoms is dangerous.
The Warning Signs of a Potentially Serious Snake Bite
Snakebite symptoms are not always obvious.
In films and television, a victim is often shown screaming in pain, with two large puncture wounds and immediate swelling.
Real-life presentations can be very different.
An Australian snakebite may initially appear as two tiny punctures, a single mark, or a scratch.
