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Allergic Conditions: Insect Sting Allergy
Insect sting allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts
to the venom injected by a stinging insect. After the first sting, the allergic
person’s body produces an allergic substance called Immunoglobulin E (IgE)
antibody, which reacts with the insect venom. The individual does not
usually experience a severe allergic reaction from that first sting—but if he
or she is stung again by an insect of the same or similar species, the insect
venom interacts with the IgE antibody produced in response to the earlier sting.
This triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause allergic
symptoms.
For a small number of people with severe venom
allergy, stings may be life-threatening. Severe allergic reactions to insect
stings can involve many body organs and may develop rapidly. This reaction is
called anaphylaxis.
Resources about insect
sting allergy:
Please visit an allergist for more information on
allergic disease and your individual medical condition. If you need to locate an
allergist in your area, visit the Academy’s online Physician
Referral Directory.
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