Bites by Venomous Snakes
Eight different species of non-venomous snakes of the Colubridae family, and three different species of poisonous snakes of the Viperidae family are native in Slovenia. In the period between 1999 and October of 2008, 39 snake bites were reported to the Poison Control Centre. The most common clinical findings in snake bite victims are discernible fang marks, rapidly progressive swelling, pain, ecchymosis, lymphangitis, and regional lymphadenitis. Systemic signs of envenomation can be delayed and include gastrointestinal symptoms, hypotension, shock, respiratory distress, as well as other cardiovascular, respiratory and neurologic symptoms and signs. First aid treatment involves immobilization of the limb, reassurance and rapid transportation to a health care facility. Good symptomatic and supportive care represents the mainstay of treatment of snake bite victims. Use of antivenom (e. g. Viper venom antiserum, European (equine)) is indicated in the case of severe local and pronounced or prolonged systemic signs of poisoning.