What are the main symptoms of 'anali' snakebite? Doctors explain

The authorities of the Parassinikadavu Snake Park in Kannur warn that snakes may sneak inside homes seeking shelter from the sweltering summer heat, increasing the risk of snake bites. Snakes cannot control their body temperature during extreme summer, as they are cold-blooded. So, they try to sneak into cosy or colder spots to escape the severe heat. This is one of the major reasons why snakes are spotted inside homes or near buildings, and cases of snake bites are increasingly reported during this season. Snake Park director E Kunjiraman, veterinary officer Dr S Anju Mohan, Dr SJ Jaismitha, Dr K Jayadeep, Dr Shidhin and K Krishnan explain how to identify snakes, the symptoms of Russell's viper (anali) bites, and the major points to note. 

Symptoms of 'anali' bite
The doctors said that the following are the symptoms of Russel’s viper (anali) bite:
a) Severe pain in the bite area
b) Swelling
c) Bleeding 
d) Kidney failure 

Indian cobra, common krait, Russel’s viper, and Indian saw-scaled viper are the four most venomous snakes that cause the most deaths in India. The venom of cobras and common kraits is a neurotoxin that causes blurred vision, difficulty speaking and swallowing, and stroke. Meanwhile, the venom of Russel’s viper directly affects the blood. 

Points to note
• Check the footwear and bags kept outside before wearing them. Lift the door mats to ensure that there aren’t any snakes resting under them. Firewood storage areas should be checked and cleaned regularly. 
• Do not keep the door of the vehicles open while parked in open spaces, as snakes could sneak in. 

• Make sure to keep the house and surroundings clean. Colder kitchen and water tanks should be cleaned properly. 
• Snakes may enter the house through drainage systems. 
• It is difficult to detect the presence of snakes inside heaps of dried leaves or thickets. Therefore, exercise caution if you have to venture into such areas. 
Snake Park helpline number 9400399000, Pappinissery Visha Chikitsa Kendra (snake bite treatment centre) – 77363777783.