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If you develop hives, shortness of breath, or other symptoms after a bee sting or insect bite, you might have an insect allergy. Our experienced allergy specialists at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates specialize in diagnosing and treating insect allergies in children and adults. They design a care plan using medication or immunotherapy to reduce your existing allergy symptoms and prevent complications like anaphylaxis. Call the nearest office in Carrollwood, South Tampa, or Brandon, Florida, today to schedule an insect allergy consultation or book an appointment online.
Insect Allergy Q&A
What is an insect allergy?
An insect allergy is diagnosed when your immune system overreacts to the venom insects deliver into your skin during a sting or bite.
An allergy to insect venom causes your immune system to produce immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies after the first sting/bite. If stung or bitten again, the venom interacts with the IgE antibody, which produces itching, redness, and swelling.
Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates offers comprehensive care for insect allergies in children and adults. They design treatment plans to minimize your reaction to insect venom to relieve symptoms and prevent more severe complications.
When should I seek medical care for an insect allergy?
You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates if you have moderate to severe allergic reactions after insect stings or bites you can’t manage at home.
You also need medical care if an insect bite or sting triggers anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis causes sudden inflammation of the throat that makes breathing difficult. The allergy specialists recommend that you schedule a consultation if you experience shortness of breath or symptoms like:
- Hives
- Dizziness
- Tongue swelling
- Stomach cramps
Seek immediate emergency care if you or your loved one experiences a loss of consciousness following an insect sting or bite.
Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates offers on-site blood testing, skin testing, and other tests to identify the source of your allergic reaction.
How is an insect allergy treated?
Immediately after a sting, use your fingernail or tweezers to remove the stinger to minimize your exposure to the venom. Clean the area with soap and water and apply a cold compress to the site to reduce swelling and pain before your office visit.
A treatment plan for an insect allergy typically includes ways to avoid insect bites and stings and medication to relieve hives and other allergy symptoms.
Your physician can prescribe allergy medication or recommend insect venom immunotherapy to desensitize your immune system to the venom. Immunotherapy requires a series of injections of small amounts of venom over several months or years.
The team also treats anaphylaxis reactions to insect venom. They can prescribe an injectable epinephrine pen that quickly relieves airway inflammation so that you can breathe easier. You must always carry the pen in case of an insect sting.
Call the Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates office near you today to schedule an insect allergy consultation or book an appointment online.