Myth – You should suck the venom out of a wound.

We’ve seen the TV shows and movies where our hero, or his damsel in distress, is bitten or stung by an immensely poisonous creature. What is the first thing these action stars do in this situation? Well, obviously they button down, put their mouth on the wound, and try to suck the venom right back out. At face value this response seems logical and perhaps even helpful, however research has shown the truth to be somewhat less inspiring. Field studies done by the University of Arizona have shown this sucking method to be more damaging to the tissue around the wound than if it had otherwise been left alone. You also run the risk of damaging your mouth, lips, and throat if you choose to suck the venom out. The scientists also advise to avoid tourniquet’s, compression cloth, and ice in these situations. If you are bitten by a poisonous animal your best hope is to find help, and not rely on pseudo science. Make sure you don’t stray too far away from your hotel reservation if you are going to be around poisonous animals.

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