How To Take The Sting Out Of An Insect Allergy

An insect allergy is an allergic reaction to a sting or bite from an insect that has an irritant or toxin in its saliva or venom. In most cases a person bitten or stung by an insect will experience a swelling, redness and mild pain, but in some people a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction may be experienced.

As is quite evident, it is not possible to control when a person is stung by an insect, so if a person has a serious insect allergy it is important that treatment and preventative measures are followed.

As insect allergies cannot be predicted, the best course of treatment is prevention.

- Stay away from areas known to have large numbers of insects.

- Remove nests around the home by contacting trained experts.

- Check the house and garden regularly for the signs of insects and their nests.

- Keep away from rubbish bins and containers.

- Shake out clothes and towels etc. which have been left on the ground or near possible insect sites.

- Be careful when drinking from drink containers which may have been left outside, as an insect could be inside.

- Check for insects before getting into a car or other vehicle, and drive with the windows closed.

- Avoid flower beds, fields etc. especially when in bloom.

- Wear long sleeved clothing, trousers instead of shorts etc.

- Choose white or light colored clothes, as dark clothed can attract insects.

- Avoid perfumes, cosmetics or sprays which could attract insects.

- Have a ready supply of insect repellent sprays and insecticides.

- If you come into contact with an insect, stay calm and brush the insect away or have someone do it for you.

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What is an allergy?

A major defence mounted by the body's immune system against normally harmless substances, or allergens, such as chemicals in pollen, food, bee stings, animal dander, or dust. An allergic reaction is the body's strong reaction to these substances in a person who is sensitive to them. Reactions range from mild to severe, and may include sneezing, a rash, or difficulty breathing (which can be fatal). Allergens trigger allergic reactions in people with allergies.
A condition in which the body has an exaggerated response to a substance (eg food or drug). Also known as hypersensitivity.
When a person is very sensitive to certain foods, liquids, pollen, or animals. The allergy can make the person ill, including sneezing, itching, and rashes. Severe allergies can even be fatal (cause death). Some organisms which cause uncomfortable allergies with people include Ragweed (pollen), Poison Ivy (oil), and Honey Bees (venom).