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 An insect allergy is an allergic reaction to a sting or bite from an insect that has an irritant or toxin in its saliva or venom. In most cases a person bitten or stung by an insect will experience a swelling, redness and mild pain, but in some people a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction may be experienced.
As is quite evident, it is not possible to control when a person is stung by an insect, so if a person has a serious insect allergy it is important that treatment and preventative measures are followed.
Symptoms of an Insect Bite or Sting
Most people will react to an insect bite or sting and the symptoms are common for most people.
- Mild redness and swelling at the site of the bite or sting. The reaction is seen after a few minutes and usually disappears after a few hours.
- Severe swelling or redness at the site of the bite or sting, sometimes spreading out from around the actual bite or sting location. Although this looks alarming, it is not different from a mild sting but may last longer - perhaps up to 10 days. However, if the reaction continues for a longer period of time some medication or medical attention may be required.
- Fatigue, nausea and tiredness.
- On areas of the body where the skin is thin or loose the reaction may appear worse, such as redder or a larger size.
- An infected bite or sting, if scratched by the sufferer, may show fluid leakage and will take slightly longer to calm down.
Symptoms of an Insect Allergy - Not a normal Sting or Bite
Allergic reactions usually involve areas of the body away from the site of the sting or bite, such as the skin, throat, lungs, heart and digestive system. If the symptoms become life-threatening they are called anaphylaxis and emergency treatment must be sought.
An anaphylactic reaction shows the following symptoms;
- Swelling or hives over the body and face.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Swelling of the tongue or throat or difficulty in swallowing.
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain.
- Light-headeness, increased heartrate, sweating.
- Loss of consciousness or convulsion.
Dealing with Insect Allergies
As insect allergies cannot be predicted, the best course of treatment is prevention.
- Stay away from areas known to have large numbers of insects.
- Remove nests around the home by contacting trained experts.
- Check the house and garden regularly for the signs of insects and their nests.
- Keep away from rubbish bins and containers.
- Shake out clothes and towels etc. which have been left on the ground or near possible insect sites.
- Be careful when drinking from drink containers which may have been left outside, as an insect could be inside.
- Check for insects before getting into a car or other vehicle, and drive with the windows closed.
- Avoid flower beds, fields etc. especially when in bloom.
- Wear long sleeved clothing, trousers instead of shorts etc.
- Choose white or light colored clothes, as dark clothed can attract insects.
- Avoid perfumes, cosmetics or sprays which could attract insects.
- Have a ready supply of insect repellent sprays and insecticides.
- If you come into contact with an insect, stay calm and brush the insect away or have someone do it for you.
Treating an Allergic Reaction to an Insect Bite or Insect Sting
If you are unlucky enough to be stung by an insect and you show a generalized / allergic reaction the treatment will be an epinephrine injection (adrenaline). Early treatment is most important at this time and the person should be rushed to hospital regardless of whether symptoms are reduced or disappear after an epinephrine injection.
People with a known history of an Insect Allergy can carry an EpiPen at all times, which is a tool for administering an injection of epinephrine.
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