Description Elapids are snakes ...
Description
Elapids are snakes including cobras, kraits, mambas, coral, tiger, and Australian snakes. Elapids have neurotoxic venom (nerve poison), which acts mainly on the central nervous system. The venom affects heart function and breathing but may cause little or no damage at the bite site.
Symptoms
Soft tissue swelling (usually mild), double vision, difficulty swallowing, respiratory collapse, breathing problems, increased salivation, jaw clenching, confusion, drooping eyelids, weakness, muscle twitching, cardiovascular collapse, low blood pressure, fast heart rate.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests will be performed to determine the extent of organ damage. Additional tests may be recommended to assess the status of the brain and nervous system.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Urinalysis (UA), X-ray
Specialists:
Medical Toxicology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests will be performed to determine the extent of organ damage. Additional tests may be recommended to assess the status of the brain and nervous system.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Urinalysis (UA), X-ray
Specialists:
Medical Toxicology
Treatment
Treatment includes: early antivenom (also called antivenin) therapy, intravenous fluids, and aggressive support of the vital signs.