Considering that snakes have a really small, basic, respiratory system and that you shouldn't soak them for more than 15-30 minutes at a time (to ensure the temp is correct) they aren't going to die. If you get carried away and leave them in there forever, then sure, but you are also going to be dealing with the risk of URI, scale rot, and death from being too cold.
To the OP, that sounds horrendous. I haven't heard of that before, but I would definitely try a soak and running a wet hand cloth down his body. I soak mine in a plastic tub with a hand towel for 15 mins, then run the wet hand towel down their body.
Do you have pictures in case it is something else?