Family members reported the girl was bitten by a snake that entered their home 10 days ago while she slept. She then developed a sore throat, drooping eyelids, abdominal pain, severe vomiting, difficulty breathing, and limb paralysis, prompting an emergency visit to a medical facility.

On 20/5, Children's Hospital Thanh Hoa leaders reported the patient was semi-conscious, with bluish lips, severe respiratory failure, significantly diminished full-body muscle strength, dilated pupils, and poor light reflex. Doctors found two small, red, swollen wounds, about 3 mm apart, on her inner left thigh.

The patient was diagnosed with pneumonia, grade 3 respiratory failure, and full-body muscle paralysis from a krait bite, though the exact time of the bite was unknown. Doctors initiated mechanical ventilation, respiratory support, specific medications, and managed complications.

After more than one week of intensive treatment, the patient regained consciousness, muscle strength recovered well, she could breathe independently, and was successfully weaned off the ventilator.

The patient exercises after recovery. Photo: Lam Son.

Summer sees an increase in snakebite cases, particularly in areas near rivers, hills, or dense vegetation and livestock farms. Many victims are bitten while sleeping on floors or working near fields.

In Vietnam, common venomous snakes include cobras, banded kraits, kraits, and pit vipers. Each species possesses distinct venom characteristics, all of which can be life-threatening without prompt emergency medical attention.

Victims of venomous snakebites often exhibit localized sharp pain, deep fang marks, and swelling in the affected area, alongside systemic symptoms: drooping eyelids, blurred vision, difficulty speaking, choking, muscle paralysis, breathing difficulties, and even coma.

Doctors advise that snakebite victims be monitored in a hospital for at least 24 hours. Antivenom is most effective within the first 4 hours but remains beneficial up to 24 hours post-bite.

Many people resort to folk remedies or traditional healers for snakebites, often delaying emergency care until patients develop respiratory failure and cyanosis. Doctors warn this is a dangerous mistake.

Doctors also advise against incising wounds, attempting to suck out venom, or applying overly tight tourniquets. Venomous snakebite victims should promptly seek care at the nearest medical facility for timely treatment.

Le Hoang