Insect Venom Allergy

Wasps and bees give the most common types of insect stings that can result in an allergic reaction. While bees are less aggressive than wasps, both can be difficult to avoid during the summer months. Although everyone will have a reaction of some kind to an insect sting, most people are not allergic. A normal reaction to an insect sting will vary from person to person. Most normal reactions cause pain and swelling and redness around the sting.

In these cases, washing the site of the sting and applying ice is helpful. Some people with a normal reaction can get more severe swelling and may require medications such as antihistamines and corticosteroids to ease discomfort.

An allergic reaction to an insect sting will require immediate medical attention and may include:
Hives, itching and swelling in areas other than where the sting occurred.

• Difficulty breathing.
• Chest tightness.
• Swelling of the tongue.
• A feeling of the throat closing up.

A very severe and potentially fatal, but fortunately rare, form of allergic reaction to insect stings is called anaphylaxis. Symptoms may include:

• Dizziness.
• A large drop in blood pressure leading to fainting or collapse.
• Unconsciousness.
• Cardiac arrest.

The management of the above allergic reaction involves rapid treatment of the symptoms and then prevention of future reactions.

Immediate medical treatment includes medications such as adrenaline (epinephrine), anti-histamines and corticosteroids, sometimes coupled with fluid administration and oxygen.

Future severe reactions can be managed with the self-administration of adrenaline by injection. These injections are often prescribed for people who have had previous allergic reactions. Medical attention is still required after these injections because additional doses of adrenaline and other medications may be required. Discuss the treatment most suitable for you with your GP.

Immunotherapy, or allergy vaccination is an effective treatment often used to prevent allergic reactions to insect stings. Learn more about Immunotherapy in the 'Treatment of Allergy' section of the site.