Diagnosing & Treating Your Stinging Allergy

As the weather warms up here in Georgia, you may spend more time outdoors. And while you may try to manage your seasonal allergies, many patients tend to forget about allergies to another part of our environment: insects.

If you believe you may have an undiagnosed insect allergy, keep reading to learn how our team at Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia can help.

Allergic Reactions to Stinging Insects

A stinging insect allergy is a reaction that occurs when the body comes into contact with an insect that has venom. The most common insects that cause these allergies are bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets. Many of our Georgia patients report flare-ups in these allergies over summer as the weather warms and more insects fill the air.

Symptoms of a stinging insect allergy can include swelling, hives, itching, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, anaphylaxis can occur.

How Our Team at Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia Can Help

If you suspect that you have a stinging insect allergy, it is important to see a board-certified Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia allergist for proper diagnosis and treatment. There are two types of tests that your allergist may perform: a skin test or a blood test. A skin test involves putting a small amount of venom on the skin to see if there is a reaction. A blood test measures the level of IgE antibodies in the blood.

There are two types of treatment for a stinging insect allergy: avoidance and immunotherapy. Avoidance includes wearing long sleeves and pants outdoors, avoiding sweet-smelling perfumes or colognes, and staying away from areas where stinging insects are known to nest. Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, is a series of injections that help the body build up immunity to the venom.

Severe Reactions

If you have a severe reaction to a sting, it is important to seek medical attention immediately as you may be at risk for anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction that can occur within minutes of being stung. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, and dizziness. If you are with someone who is having an anaphylactic reaction, it is important to call 911 and provide them with emergency medical care.

Start Treatment Today at Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia

While insect sting allergies can be serious, many treatments are available to help people manage their allergies and live normal, healthy lives. If you think you may have a stinging insect allergy, it is vital to see an allergist for diagnosis and treatment.