5 tips to apply first aid to snake bites

The lymphatic system and snake venom how it moves through our body.

Snake venom moves through our lymphatic system not our blood stream. Lymph is a fluid in your body that contains white blood cells. When you move your limbs the lymph fluid moves. Unlike blood which is pumped around your body continuously your lymph moves when you move your limbs. Lymph flow is mainly influenced by pumping, like millions of little hearts in series. This is due to smooth muscle contractions in the vessel wall and movement resulting from external compression. The lymphatic system is like a vacuum cleaner that takes big molecules into circulation, some snake venom contain substances that ensure this vacuum cleaner does not become blocked allowing the venom to succeed in its deadly mission. By applying a pressure bandage you immobilise the area and stop the venom from moving through your lymphatic system.

Here is the procedure if bitten by a snake:

1.  Call 000
2. Don’t panic and don’t move
3. Leave the snake alone
4. Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage and splint
5. Don’t wash,suck, cut or tourniquet the bite

Surfcoast massage understands the lymphatic system and is one of a few people fully trained in the procedure of lymphatic drainage, Surfcoast massage is located in Torquay and Jan Juc and can be contacted on 0438668878.https://www.surfcoastmassage.com.au/about/