Snakebite first aid

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 26 September 2026

A snakebite is a medical emergency — the priority is reaching a hospital with antivenom quickly. Stay calm and still, and avoid the traditional remedies that do more harm than good.

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Step-by-step (the “do it R.I.G.H.T.” approach)

1. Reassure the person and keep them calm and as still as possible.
2. Immobilise the bitten limb with a splint (like a fracture) — do not raise it high.
3. Remove rings, watches and tight clothing near the bite (swelling will follow).
4. Get to a hospital urgently — antivenom is the treatment.
5. Note the time of the bite and the snake’s appearance (a photo from a safe distance helps).
6. Keep the bite at or slightly below heart level and the person lying still.

When to see a doctor urgently

Do NOT cut the wound, suck out venom, or apply a tight tourniquet
Do NOT apply ice, herbs, chemicals or “snake stones”
Do NOT try to catch or kill the snake
Watch for: drooping eyelids, difficulty breathing/swallowing, bleeding, drowsiness — worsening emergency

Get to hospital fast — antivenom saves lives. Old remedies (cutting, sucking, tourniquets, ice, herbal pastes) waste time and cause harm. Rapid transport to a hospital with antivenom is what saves lives. This is not a substitute for emergency care.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do first after a snakebite?

Keep the person calm and still, immobilise the bitten limb with a splint, remove tight items, and get to a hospital urgently for antivenom.

Should I use a tourniquet or cut the bite?

No — cutting, sucking, tight tourniquets and ice are harmful and outdated. Immobilise the limb and get to hospital fast instead.

How do I know if a snake is venomous?

You often cannot tell reliably, so treat every bite as potentially serious and get medical care. Note the snake’s look from a safe distance if possible.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.