Rattlesnakes are the most widely known of the pit vipers (family Viperidae). They are found throughout the United States and parts of Canada and account for most poisonous (venomous) snakebites in North America. They leave one, two, or three puncture marks on the skin, but you won't always see any marks.
Rattlesnakes can be up to 8 ft (2.5 m) long and have:
Symptoms of a rattlesnake bite usually appear from minutes to hours after a bite and can include:
If you think you have been bitten by a rattlesnake, call 911 or other emergency services immediately.
Current as of: July 10, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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