In Sweden, we have one venomous snake species: the viper. Viper venom is a complex mixture of various substances that affect the body in different ways. A bite can cause anything from no reaction at all to severe poisoning. And unfortunately, it looks like a record number of bites will occur this year.
Do not panic
“Vipers prefer warm days and are therefore most active during spring, summer, and early autumn. You can encounter vipers in the forest and in open fields. If you do come across a viper, it is important not to panic. If you are unlucky enough to be bitten, you must remain calm so that the venom does not spread through your body,” says Sol Malm Hagen, a doctor at Eyr.
She notes that it is important not to squeeze or suck on the bite wound.
“In about 30% of cases, no venom enters the body, even if you are bitten. This is because the viper conserves its venom—a so-called ‘dry bite’—and consequently, no reaction occurs,” she explains. “If you have an infant, are pregnant, or have an underlying illness, you should contact 112 immediately if bitten by a viper. Children and people taking certain types of blood pressure medication are at higher risk of becoming very ill if they receive venom from a viper bite. Children, the elderly, and pregnant women must always seek hospital care,” says Hagen.
Symptoms and treatment
Young, healthy adults may experience only mild symptoms. Nevertheless, we recommend contacting a doctor for a quick assessment. Doctors at Eyr can provide advice via video consultation.
Often, symptoms are mild, consisting of pain accompanied by swelling and bluish-red discoloration at the bite site. In severe cases, viper bites can lead to symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, dizziness, breathing difficulties, heart palpitations, and loss of consciousness,” she says.
At the hospital, treatment with antivenom may be appropriate. Swelling can develop gradually, and early treatment is important to prevent the condition from becoming serious. If there are no symptoms two hours after the bite, it is likely a dry bite.