Envenomation from venomous creatures is influenced by several factors. These factors should be taken into consideration when assessing the potential severity of the expected symptoms.

• Strength of venom.
• Amount of venom injected (number of bites or stings).
• Location of the bite or sting.
• Age of patient.
• Body mass of patient.
• Pre-existing medical condition of patient, such as chronic diabetes.
• Patients individual reaction if any.

All of these factors will influence the sytmpoms experienced by the patient and, in turn, the treatment. In some instances, a sting from a mildly venomous creature may cause serious symptoms in one patient, yet cause mild symptoms that may not even require medical attention in another.

Generally speaking, the fitter and more healthy a patient is, the better they are able to cope with venom. Note that allergic reactions should not be confused with symptoms that are directly related to venom.