Insect allergy is due to as a result of stinging of pests on the skin. It’s fundamentally the venom in the sting which causes the allergy. Mild allergic reactions will probably be treated within a day or 2 but if its acute then immediate medical aid is must since it’s life threatening.
Insect allergy occurs when the immune system treats the sting as an outsider and releases antibodies called histamine. The release of histamine causes the body to react in such a way that the body begins displaying allergy symptoms.
Below are the list of few insects whose stinging involves high risk of allergic reactions. Be careful with these insects as it may lead to severe problem like anaphylaxis.
- Honey bees: they can be found in honeycombs in trees, when attacked it can be very dangerous.
- Hornets: their sting can give severe allergic reactions.
- Fire ants: they cause severe burning and pain and are mostly found in warm places.
- Yellow jack: they usually reside under ground and some times in the cracks of a building.
- Paper wasps: these are usually found in shrubs and in wood piles.
Insect Allergy Symptoms
The following are the symptoms caused due to the sting of insects. However it may differ from person to person. For some people it can be mild while for some other stings of the same insect can turn out to be severe and life threatening.
- Flushing
- Hives
- Itching
- Redness and rashes all over the body
- Nausea
- Swelling of skin
- Burning of skin
- Abdominal cramp
- Vomiting
- Difficulty in breathing
- Chest tightness and pain
As mentioned before the severity of sting changes from person to person. When it’s a normal reaction then the response will result in redness, pain and rash just on the bite region. This can be treated by apply ice in the infected area and washing the area with water immediately. Make sure you remove the sting if it is left on the skin.
Aside from normal reaction one may likewise be endured by large local reaction that means having allergic reaction past the bite region. For example if a individual has been attacked by a bee bite on his foot then the redness and pain can stretch to the whole leg area. This involves taking medical aid quickly as it might take 2-3 days to be treated.
How To Avoid Insect Stings?
- Avoid walking bare foot. Wearing sandals or slippers means insects can attack your foot. Make sure you fully cover the foot when outdoor.
- Do not swat a flying insect. If it is irritating you then it is better to leave the place or be patient till it goes away.
- When you are eating in an open area always cover your food.
- Always keep the dustbins closed. Houseflies and insects gets attracted to the waste and can cause allergic reaction.
- While driving keep the windows closed
- Insects gets attracted with bright colors, avoid wearing such clothes when outdoor.
- Avoid wearing sweet smelling perfumes and deodorants as these attract insects.
- Always carry the medications when you are going out.
