India is home to over 300 species of snakes, out of which around 60 are venomous. Snake venom is a complex mix of proteins, enzymes, and toxins. The primary types of venom found in Indian snakes are neurotoxic, hemotoxic, cytotoxic, and myotoxic. Each type affects the human body differently, depending on the snake’s species and venom composition.
Main Types of Snake Venom
| Venom Type | Composition | Effect on Humans |
|---|---|---|
| Neurotoxic | Neurotoxins, Acetylcholine inhibitors | Paralysis, respiratory failure, death without ventilation |
| Hemotoxic | Hemotoxins, Proteolytic enzymes | Internal bleeding, shock, organ failure |
| Cytotoxic | Cytotoxins | Tissue death, severe pain, necrosis |
| Myotoxic | Myotoxins | Muscle breakdown, kidney failure |
Examples of Indian Snakes by Venom Type
| Venom Type | Example Snakes in India |
|---|---|
| Neurotoxic |
• Indian Cobra (Naja naja) • Common Krait (Bungarus caeruleus) • Banded Krait (Bungarus fasciatus) • King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) • Coral Snake (Calliophis melanurus) |
| Hemotoxic |
• Russell's Viper (Daboia russelii) • Saw-scaled Viper (Echis carinatus) • Bamboo Pit Viper (Trimeresurus gramineus) • Green Pit Viper (Trimeresurus trigonocephalus) |
| Cytotoxic |
• Hump-nosed Pit Viper (Hypnale hypnale) • Malabar Pit Viper (Trimeresurus malabaricus) • Some Sea Snakes (mildly cytotoxic) |
| Myotoxic |
• Beaked Sea Snake (Hydrophis schistosus) • Hook-nosed Sea Snake (Enhydrina zweifeli) |
Detailed Effects on Humans
1. Neurotoxic Venom
Affects the nervous system. Victims may show drooping eyelids, muscle paralysis, and inability to breathe. Fatal without antivenom or assisted ventilation.
2. Hemotoxic Venom
Attacks blood cells and tissues. Causes bruising, bleeding gums, internal hemorrhages, and sometimes renal failure.
3. Cytotoxic Venom
Destroys cells and tissues at the bite site. Leads to swelling, blistering, necrosis, and possible infection or gangrene.
4. Myotoxic Venom
Damages muscle fibers. Symptoms include muscle pain, dark urine (from myoglobin), and risk of kidney damage.
Importance of Quick Treatment
All venom types require immediate hospital care. Only antivenom and respiratory support can reverse life-threatening symptoms. Avoid relying on traditional remedies or wasting time.
Conclusion
Understanding snake venom types is key to recognizing danger signs. Knowing whether a snake is neurotoxic or hemotoxic helps doctors choose the right treatment. With over 300 snake species in India, education and awareness are vital to saving lives.