Insect Sting Allergies

Most insect sting allergies have relatively similar symptoms such as swelling, itching, or redness. While symptoms are usually the same, your reaction may range in severity. There are three main types of reactions to insect stings:

• Local Reaction: Swelling and redness are confined to the general area of the sting. Generally, these are not dangerous.
• Large Local Reaction: Symptoms include swelling, redness, and itching that may or may not be confined to the general area of the sting. Generally, these reactions are not dangerous, but large areas of swelling may warrant further evaluation.
• Systemic Reaction: This type of allergic reaction results in symptoms other than localized swelling. Symptoms may include itching, hives, or swelling away from the sting site and may progress to anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction which can include tightness in the chest and difficulty breathing, throat tightness, dizziness, a sharp drop in blood pressure, unconsciousness, or cardiac arrest.

Yes, it is possible to develop an allergy after having previous stings that didn’t cause allergy symptoms. The first time you are stung, you may not have an allergic reaction. However, continued exposure to the allergen over time (like getting stung a few times) can cause your body to produce antibodies that react to the sting venom. For some people, this gradual antibody production can cause severe allergic reaction symptoms or even anaphylaxis down the road.

Severe reactions to insect stings that require immediate medical attention include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Lip and tongue swelling
• Itchy or swollen throat
• Large areas of hives
• Severe abdominal cramping
• Dizziness or feeling lightheaded

These may be symptoms of anaphylactic reaction, and you should seek medical care as quickly as possible.

Most allergic reactions to insect stings or bites are caused by hornets, yellow jackets, wasps, honeybees, and ants. A common misconception about insect sting allergies is that if you react poorly to one insect, you are also allergic to others.

If you have a confirmed bee allergy, there is a possibility that you are also allergic to wasp stings or yellow jackets. However, the only way to confirm those allergies is through allergy testing. At the Allergy & Asthma Group of Galen, our board-certified allergists and immunologists administer skin allergy testing to determine your allergens and provide you with the best treatment.

Typically, a reaction from an insect sting occurs almost immediately. In very rare cases, delayed reactions to insect stings can happen, causing a wide variety of symptoms such as fever, rashes, and swelling days or weeks after a sting. Although delayed reactions to an insect sting are uncommon, being seen by a healthcare provider is the best course of action.

After being diagnosed with an insect sting allergy, it can be overwhelming to determine the next steps. We recommend that anyone diagnosed with an insect sting allergy take the following precautions:

• Always wear shoes while outdoors.
• Avoid potential nests. Garden with care.
• Stay clear of outdoor trashcans or dumpsters.
• Avoid wearing scents and colors that attract insects.
• Avoid footwear and clothing that could trap insects.
• Try to always have a partner while doing outdoor activities.
• Keep insecticide and repellent with you, especially outdoors.
• Keep food and drinks covered to keep insects out.
• Always keep your Epinephrine Auto-Injector (EpiPen) with you.