Sea Snake Bite Treatment Advice

Sea snake venom typically consists of neurotoxins which often develop common symptoms within three hours of being bitten.

Sea snakes are found in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, in the Persian Gulf, throughout Asia and extending from Africa to America, from Siberia to Tasmania.

They are not found in the Atlantic Ocean.

Sea Snake Bite Symptoms

• Puncture marks
• Blurry vision perhaps with droopy eye lids (ptosis)
• Stiffness in limbs and painful muscles
• Aching in the joints (arthralgia)
• Vomiting
• Dark brown urine
• Muscular contractions
• Weakness or paralysis in the legs (inability to move)
• Excessive saliva production
• Thickness in the tongue (difficulty to speak or swallow)

Sea Snake Bite Treatment

• Begin CPR if necessary
• Use Pressure Immobilization methods
• Keep the diver still, quiet and reassured
• Do not let them walk
• Monitor the consciousness, airway and breathing
• Provide medical aid
• Sea snake anti-venom if available

Special Considerations for Sea Snake Bites

The pressure bandage should not occlude the circulation (the fingers/toes beyond the bandage should remain pink and with normal sensation). The bandage should be left in place until proper medical support is available.

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