Spend even a short amount of time
outside during the warmer months, and chances are you’ll
encounter one of the many bugs who also live in Texas. Wasps,
bees, yellow jackets, hornets, and fire ants are just a few of
the six-legged critters that can sting with a vengeance.
Pain, redness, itching, and mild swelling at the site of the
sting are the most common symptoms of insect bites, and for most
people, these issues will fade after a few days. But not
everyone is so lucky. |
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Insect allergies explained
For an estimated 2 million Americans, the venom from insect
stings can induce serious allergic reactions. Symptoms may
include hives, flushed skin, nausea, vomiting, or even
life-threatening reactions. More serious reactions include
difficulty breathing, dizziness, and fainting. In extreme cases,
people with severe allergic reactions may develop anaphylaxis,
which can be fatal if not treated immediately. Each year, about
50 people in the U.S. die from insect sting allergies.
There are tests that can check for venom allergies, says
Thomas Smith, M.D., an
allergist at The Austin Diagnostic Clinic (ADC).
“We can give patients an allergy
test that puts a small amount of insect venom on the skin,” Dr.
Smith explains. “This test can quickly show which insect venoms
you are allergic to, and how severe your allergy is.”
Avoidance is key
For those who already know they are allergic to insect stings,
the best advice is to simply avoid those insects. Staying
indoors can help. When you do venture outside, common sense can
go a long way. Don’t go walking barefoot if you know there may
be fire ants crawling around. If you see a wasp nest in the
backyard, get away and have it removed by a professional. Wear
clothing that isn’t brightly colored, and when possible be sure
it covers your arms, chest, and legs. And don’t use perfume or
cologne, because certain scents may attract stinging insects.
Treatment options
Despite these precautions, there is still a chance you may be
stung. If you have not been stung before, you are not at risk
for a major reaction. If you have been stung before, there is
only a small chance of a major reaction. However, if you have
had a reaction to a sting with other symptoms besides irritation
at the site of the sting, then risk of a major reaction is high
if you are stung again. If you have experienced a reaction in
the past, you should carry a self-injectable prescription such
as an EpiPen™. This device delivers a dose of a naturally
occurring hormone called epinephrine to counteract the effect of
insect allergies.
“Injectable epinephrine is the first line of treatment. But it’s
also important to wear an identification bracelet that indicates
insect allergies,” says Dr. Smith. “Even if you have given
yourself a dose of epinephrine, it is essential that you go to
an ER after an insect sting, just to make sure you are okay.”
Preventative techniques
You should also consider taking immuno-therapy to reduce your
reaction to the venom, says Dr. Smith. This technique involves
injecting small amounts of the offending venom into the patient
over time, so that they gradually build up immunity to the
venom. Eventually, a person with insect venom allergies can
markedly decrease their sensitivity to the venom, Dr. Smith
explains.
“Insect allergies can be a frightening thing,” Dr. Smith adds.
“But that shouldn’t preclude you from enjoying the great
outdoors during the summer.”
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