What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Agkistrodon Laticinctus Snake Bite

What is Broad-Banded Copperhead Snake Bite? (Definition/Background Information)

• The broad-banded copperhead snake (Agkistrodon laticinctus) is a venomous snake found widespread in the United States of America, from south of Nebraska up to Mexico border and east of Iowa up to Massachusetts. These snakes belong to the sub-species of pit vipers, family Viperidae. Pit vipers are termed so, due to the presence of certain heat-sensing organs located in a recess/notch between their eyes and nostrils
• Adult broad banded copperheads are relatively heavy and robust with a short tapering tail ending in a moderately long spine. The head is flat, broad, and triangular in shape; it is distinct from the neck. The snakes are normally seen in shades of brown - tan, pale brown, or red-brown, with alternating light (gray-yellow) and dark (brown) broad bands. The tail of young snakes is usually bright yellow with a green tip to attract prey
• These copperheads are usually between 2 to 3 feet long. The broad-banded copperhead is most common in wooded regions containing rocky canyons, springs, and river streams, including swamps and marshes and low coastal areas. The snakes may be also found away from waterbodies in desert scrub areas. The snakes are land-dwelling (terrestrial) reptiles that are good swimmers too. They prey on insects (including cicadas and caterpillars), frogs, rodents, and lizards
• Broad-Banded Copperhead Snake Bite fatalities from systemic envenomation (venom injection through a bite) in the absence of treatment is extremely uncommon. The hemotoxic-myotoxic venom is relatively mild and causes moderate envenomation only when injected in large quantities (which is rare); systemic effects from the snake bite are occasionally noted
• The signs and symptoms of Broad-Banded Copperhead Snake Bite include pain that may be severe in some cases, and mild swelling. Common systemic symptoms including rapid breathing, vision defects, low blood pressure, paralysis, and organ failure are generally absent; mildly impaired blood coagulation and red blood cell breakdown may be noted
• Antivenom (or antivenin) is administered only when severe local or systemic symptoms are noted. Symptomatic treatment is usually considered following speedy assessment, and may include pain medication, wound care, and respiratory support, as needed. The prognosis of Broad Banded Copperhead Snake Bite with prompt and effective therapy is normally excellent; lethal bites are generally unknown