Topic Overview

Coral snakes are found in tropical regions of North America and are often confused with nonpoisonous (nonvenomous) milk snakes because they look similar.

A coral snake can be up to 3 ft (1 m) long and has:

• Red, yellow, and black bands along the length of the body.
• Round pupils and a black nose.
• Fangs. Coral snakes tend to chew on their victims for a few seconds and may leave tooth marks with or without fang marks.

At first, mild pain may be the only symptom of a coral snake bite. Within 90 minutes, a feeling of weakness or numbness may occur in the bitten extremity.

Other symptoms may appear up to 12 to 24 hours after a bite. Symptoms may include:

• Increased salivation and drooling.
• Drowsiness or euphoria.
• Slurred speech.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Numbness and tingling ( paresthesia ).

Symptoms that occur less often include double vision, trouble breathing, sweating, muscle aches, and confusion. In rare cases, a person may die from a coral snake bite.

If you think you have been bitten by a coral snake, call 911 or other emergency services immediately.