Posted by:
John Q
at Sun Aug 25 17:11:05 2013 [ Report Abuse ] [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by John Q ]
"What is the difference between venomous and "toxic" in your opinion?" In the case of a venomous bite, the response or reaction is consistent, always the same. Venom works different among the various venomous snakes but when bitten, we all respond in the same manner to that specific venom. It might be tissue damage, blood cell damage, paralysis, etc. Using a rattlesnake as an example, we all require medical treatment, antivenin. Other than a dry bite, do you know of anyone that was bitten by a venomous snake, got a does of venom, and had no reaction? none?
A substance may be completely harmless,beneficial to us, or only result in a minor reaction when it is toxic. We all need to drink water but even water can be toxic. A few years back a radio station held a contest to drink a large amount of water in a very short time. A contestant died. A single bee sting from an african bee would not be a problem for most of us. However, there are documented deaths of individuals that were stung hundreds of times. Is the sting from that bee venomous or toxic? Google Erin Brockovich, toxic not venomous.
As far as hognose bites, why is it that bites do not result in the same reaction every time? The venom from venomous snakes works in very specific ways, dependent on the species, and always results in the same response or reaction.
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