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

• Binocellate Cobra Snake Bite
• Common Indian Cobra Snake Bite
• Naja Naja Snake Bite

What is Spectacled Cobra Snake Bite? (Definition/Background Information)

• The spectacled cobra (Naja naja) is a highly venomous and dangerous snake that is widely distributed snake across the Indian sub-continent in the countries of Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. It is found at elevations of up to 6,500 feet (2,000 m). The snake is commonly known as the Indian cobra. This large reptile belongs to the Elapidae family (genus Naja or cobra), which generally includes slender and swift moving snakes. This heavy and robust-bodied snake can grow from around 3.5 feet to almost 7.5 feet in length
• The snake’s head is flat and elliptical with a rounded snout and medium-sized eyes; the head and neck are slightly distinct from each other. Like most cobras, the head and neck of the spectacled cobra can spread into a long and wide hood. The name of the cobra is derived from the double “O-shaped” annular marks, with white borders and dark centers, connected by a white curved line on the back of its hood that is prominently visible when the hood is expanded
• The snake has a glossy body, and the color and pattern on the snake may change from one geographical region to another. It is usually in shades of brown, black, or light yellow. The underbelly of the snake is usually yellow-white; immediately behind the hood, on the inside, two dark spots resembling eye pupils with lighter and broader borders may be seen. Some specimens show dark bands on the underside
• The snake is terrestrial and feeds mainly on small mammals (rodents); young snakes may prey on frogs and toads, other snakes, and lizards too. It prefers to hunt during the daytime; and is a good swimmer and climber too. The spectacled cobra inhabits diverse habitats including forests, grasslands, plains, and cultivated lands. It is not found in hot dry areas such as desert regions. The snake is frequently found near dense human settlements (villages, towns, and cities). It generally prefers to take shelter in tree hollows, old buildings, termite mounds, holes in embankments, and animal burrows
• Contact with humans is regularly observed in the endemic regions, and Spectacled Cobra Snake Bites are common. In search of food, the snake frequents areas with human population. The cobra is described as being generally shy and of mild disposition. It is a quick-moving snake that tries to escape when disturbed. However, if provoked, it may threaten with raised forebody and expanded hood display. After striking, the snake may hold on to its victim
• The potency of venom is high, and symptom-onset occurs within 30 minutes. Spectacled Cobra Snake Bites can result in fatalities due to systemic envenomation (venom injection through a bite), if the condition is left untreated. The rate of envenoming and untreated mortality rates are high. The venom is believed to contain potent neurotoxins and cardiotoxins. The cobra is a giant killer in the endemic regions 
• Significant symptoms, such as low blood pressure, severe tissue necrosis, flaccid paralysis, and respiratory distress, may be noted. The signs and symptoms may include moderate to severe local pain, swelling, and blistering at the bite site, which may progress to headache, sweating, nausea and vomiting, drooping eyelids, abdominal pain, seizures, dizziness, and collapse
• Early administration of suitable antivenom (or antivenin) is the mainstay of treatment. Apart from this, symptomatic treatment that may include pain medication, wound care, intravenous fluid administration, and respiratory support may be necessary. The prognosis of Spectacled Cobra Snake Bite with prompt and effective therapy is usually good; but without immediate treatment, early deaths are reported