The amount of venom injected and the sensitivity of the victim are both factors determining the seriousness of the bits. The venom is cytotoxic, damaging the flesh of the victim. There may be no initial pain felt, or a stinging sensation may appear immediately. Intense pain follows, lasting 2-8 hours. A small blister forms at the bite, and a large area surrounding the bite swells and reddens, becoming firm to the touch.
Victims sometimes experience nausea, abdominal cramps, stiffness of joints, and fever.
The tissue in the infected area becomes ulcerous, sloughs away, and results in a pitted area that eventually fills with scar tissue. The wound heals slowly, usually in 6 to 8 weeks, and leaves a permanent scar. If bitten, call your local poison center immediately or see a doctor. Apply antiseptic solution to prevent infection, and ice packs to the surrounding area. Corticosteroid injections may be given by a doctor to curtail reactions to the bite.