what kind of venom does a diamondback rattlesnake have
Western diamondback rattlesnake Like most other American pit vipers, the venom contains proteolytic enzymes. Proteolytic venoms are concentrated secretions that destroy tissues as a result of catabolism of structural and other proteins, which help in disabling prey. The venom of C. atrox is primarily hemotoxic, affecting mainly the blood vessels, blood cells and the heart. The venom contains hemorrhagic components called zinc metalloproteinases.[16][17] The venom also contains cytotoxins and myotoxins which destroy cells and muscles that add to the failure of the cardiovascular system.[18] In addition to hemorrhage, venom metalloproteinases induce myonecrosis (skeletal muscle damage), which seems to be secondary to the ischemia that ensues in muscle tissue as a consequence of bleeding and reduced perfusion. Microvascular disruption by metalloproteinases also impairs skeletal muscle regeneration, being therefore responsible for fibrosis and permanent tissue loss after bites from this species.[19] General local effects include pain, heavy internal bleeding, severe swelling, severe muscle damage, bruising, blistering, and necrosis; systemic effects are variable and not specific, but may include headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, and convulsions. Hemorrhagins causing bleeding is a major clinical effectthis can lead to death and sickness.[20]
List of fatal snake bites in the United States It has been estimated that 7,000â€“8,000 people per year receive venomous snake bites in the United States, and about five of those people die.[5] Most fatal bites are attributed to the eastern diamondback rattlesnake and the western diamondback rattlesnake. The copperhead accounts for more cases of venomous snake bite than any other North American species; however, its venom is the least toxic, so its bite is seldom fatal.[6]
List of fatal snake bites in the United States It has been estimated that 7,000â€“8,000 people per year receive venomous bites in the United States, and about five of those people die.[5] Most fatal bites are attributed to the eastern and western diamondback rattlesnake. Copperheads account for more cases of venomous snake bite than any other North American species; however, their venom is the least toxic, so their bite is seldom fatal.[6]
List of fatal snake bites in the United States The United States has about 20 species of venomous snakes, which include 16 species of rattlesnakes, two species of coral snakes, one species of cottonmouth (or water moccasin), and one species of copperhead. At least one type of venomous snake is found in every state except Alaska and Hawaii.[4]