Insect Allergy
Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. treats children and adults who react to insect stings and bites. Our physicians identify the specific insect trigger and build a treatment plan suited to each patient.
What Is Insect Allergy?
Insect allergy occurs when the immune system reacts to proteins found in the venom of a sting or bite. Reactions can affect the skin, the airway, or the entire body, depending on the person and the insect involved.
The insects most often responsible for allergic reactions are bees, wasps, hornets, and fire ants. A sting from any of these insects can cause a mild local reaction in most people, but in some patients it triggers a more serious, body-wide response.
Patients who have had a reaction beyond swelling and redness at the sting site should be evaluated. This includes children and adults, since insect allergy can develop or change at any age.
Symptoms of Insect Allergy
Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Children and adults should be evaluated if a sting causes any of the following:
Hives or Itching
Raised, itchy welts on the skin that may appear away from the sting site.
Swelling of the Face, Lips, or Throat
Swelling that spreads beyond the sting site, including the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Difficulty Breathing
Wheezing, tightness in the chest, or trouble breathing after a sting or bite.
Dizziness or Feeling Faint
A drop in blood pressure can cause lightheadedness, fainting, or a rapid heartbeat.
In severe cases, a sting can cause a whole-body reaction that affects breathing and circulation. Any of these signs, especially in combination, should be treated as urgent and evaluated right away.
Diagnosing Insect Allergy
Our physicians use a combination of methods to identify the specific insect responsible for a patient's reaction.
Physical Examination
A review of the sting reaction, medical history, and any prior episodes with insects.
Allergy Skin Testing
Skin testing to identify which insect venom is causing the reaction.
Blood Testing
Blood testing may be used where appropriate to confirm a specific insect trigger.
Treating Insect Allergy
Treatment for insect allergy is individualized based on the patient's history and testing results.
Managing Medication
Guidance on medications that help control symptoms and reduce reactions to insect stings and bites.
Identifying and Avoiding Triggers
Guidance on identifying insect triggers and reducing exposure to bees, wasps, hornets, and fire ants in daily activities.
Venom Immunotherapy
Venom immunotherapy given as allergy shots introduces small amounts of venom over time to reduce the immune response.
Individual Treatment Plan
An individualized treatment plan developed for each patient and reviewed over time as needs change.
What to Bring to Your Visit
Please bring the following items to help your visit go smoothly.
Insurance Card
Bring your current insurance card to your appointment.
Referral, If Required
Bring any referral required by your insurance plan.
Medication List
Bring a list of current medications, including dosages.
Patient forms can be completed online before your visit. Visit our patient forms page to get started.
Schedule an Evaluation for Insect Allergy
Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. sees children and adults at four office locations, with Saturday hours available for added convenience.