Insect Stings and Bites:
Is It an Allergy?
 Horror
stories about allergic reactions to stings and bites breed fear
of summertime insects. The reality is that less than 0.4 percent
of people are severely allergic to insect stings, and most allergic
reactions are not life threatening.
Normal reactions to insect stings include itching, redness and
swelling at or near the site of the bite or sting. Symptoms can range from
mildly uncomfortable, as in the case of most mosquito bites, to very
uncomfortable, as in the case of a wasp sting which may cause an arm to
swell and ache. As long as the symptoms are confined to the general area
surrounding the bite or sting, the reaction is not considered severe.
Treat the bite or sting with an over-the-counter hydrocortisone
cream or a homemade paste of baking soda and water to reduce the itch. For
more uncomfortable side effects, such as swelling or aching, try an
over-the-counter antihistamine. Be sure to follow dosage directions. If
symptoms don't begin to subside in a day, contact your physician for
treatment advice.
Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction usually occur within
minutes of a sting or bite and may include:
- Itching or swelling in places other than the site of the sting or
bite.
- Swelling of the tongue
- Difficulty breathing or talking
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Unconsciousness
If you suspect an allergic reaction you should seek medical help
immediately.
If you have had a severe reaction to an insect bite or sting you
should carry a bee sting kit, which usually includes an antihistamine pill
and an epinephrine self-injection. Always seek immediate medical attention
after using an epinephrine injection.
More about insect stings and bites:
Other allergy articles | Back
|
