Now that we are well into Summer, stinging insect allergy is a concern that comes up with almost any vacation or outdoor activity in general. Stinging insect allergy is a concern that comes up with such trips and outdoor activities in general. The most serious allergic sting reactions are caused by bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets and fire ants. Most insect stings cause a temporary and localized reaction that can last up to several days and generally resolves without the need for treatment. However, life-threatening allergic reactions and anaphylaxis occur in 0.4 percent to 0.8 percent of children and 3 percent of adults. In fact, such reactions account for at least 40 deaths each year in the United States. These serious reactions will often present with hives, swelling, nausea, vomiting, airway compromise and/or fainting. They require immediate medical treatment.
For those with a history or suspicion of stinging insect allergy we recommend evaluation by one of our physicians. A consultation with lab tests and/or simple skin tests can determine if a person is allergic or not. If a patient is allergic, it is important that they are properly (1) educated on the avoidance of stinging insects, (2) carry epinephrine for emergency treatment, (3) consider carrying medical identification for such allergy, and (4) be considered for immunotherapy.
Approximately 30 to 60 percent of people with insect sting allergy will experience a major life-threatening reaction after a sting. Immunotherapy (often known as “allergy shots” or “venom shots”) is a treatment using the insect venom and involves sequential injections of increasing dose. Immunotherapy is done safely under observation and is extremely effective in reducing the risk of a life-threatening sting reaction to less than 5 percent (and even the rare breakthrough reactions are much milder).
Our physicians here at Asthma and Allergy Associates are very experienced with insect sting allergy and treatment. We are proud to provide immunotherapy for our patients, working with a variety of people ranging from the passionate outdoorsman or the sports-loving child to the commercial beekeeper or professional entomologist. Immunotherapy provides them the needed protection from a future reaction and improves their quality of life tremendously.