Patrick O’Brien, a Tyler business owner, is recovering after being bitten by a copperhead snake last Friday night. O’Brien, who owns Project Lean Nation at the Village at Cumberland in Tyler, returned to his store this Tuesday following a hospital stay that included time in the intensive care unit.
The incident occurred on a cement pathway as O’Brien was walking barefoot from his garage to his house after dark. He experienced an immediate and intense pain in the side of his foot, which he initially mistook for a scorpion sting. Upon using his phone’s flashlight, O’Brien discovered the snake nearby. He then inspected his foot, observing two distinct fang marks with a small amount of blood. O’Brien recognized the snake as a copperhead, noting its green tail, which indicated it was a juvenile. His experience growing up in East Texas helped him identify the species. O’Brien understood the potential seriousness of the bite, considering that juvenile snakes can sometimes deliver a significant amount of venom. He described the sensation of the bite as akin to "getting stung by 10 red wasps at once" with a persistent burning feeling.
Recognizing the need for immediate medical attention, O’Brien went inside to inform his wife, and they quickly departed for the hospital. In the emergency room, O’Brien received an intravenous line, and doctors conducted blood work to assess how the venom was affecting his body. Hospital staff also marked his foot at intervals to precisely track the progression of swelling and bruising as it developed.
As the situation unfolded, medical professionals determined that anti-venom treatment was necessary. Following this decision, O’Brien was transferred to the intensive care unit for continued care and observation. After the anti-venom was administered, additional blood work was performed to evaluate its effectiveness and to determine if further doses would be required. O’Brien emphasized the importance of maintaining a calm demeanor during treatment, noting that keeping blood pressure low helps to mitigate the spread of the venom throughout the body. His ICU doctor informed him that his health metrics were favorable compared to what is typically seen for individuals his age, attributing this positive outcome to O’Brien's general health.
Following O'Brien’s experience, Dallas Goodwin, a reptile keeper at the Caldwell Zoo, offered guidance on how residents can enhance safety around snakes. Goodwin recommends keeping yards neatly trimmed and ensuring that outbuildings or sheds are free from rodents, as these can attract snakes. If a snake is encountered, particularly one believed to be venomous, Goodwin advises leaving it undisturbed and allowing it ample space. UT Health East Texas also provides steps to follow if a snake bite occurs.
O’Brien’s recovery and return to work underscore the critical importance of prompt medical attention for venomous snake bites. His experience also serves as a reminder for East Texas residents to exercise caution around their homes, especially during nighttime hours and in areas where snakes might seek shelter.
