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Patients & Consumers Conditions En Español Find an Allergist / Immunologist Just for Kids New Research Parent Resources Pollen Levels Publications Request a Speaker School Tools Seniors The Virtual Allergist™ Treatments Search by Condition (A-Z) Search by Topic Allergy & Asthma Issues Educational Brochures Elements of Allergy and Asthma Order Public Education Materials Allergy Shots Drug Guide Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)		Insect Sting Allergy For most people, an insect sting means a little pain and discomfort. But some people may have trouble breathing or itch and have hives all over their body after being stung. These people are allergic to insect stings. This means that their immune system overreacts to the insect's venom. Most allergic insect sting reactions are caused by five kinds of insects: Yellow jackets Honeybees Paper wasps Hornets Fire ants For people who are very allergic to an insect's venom, a sting may cause a dangerous allergic reaction called anaphylaxis (an-a-fi-LAK-sis). Signs of anaphylaxis include: Itching and hives over a large part of the body Swollen throat or tongue Trouble breathing Dizziness Stomach cramps Nausea or upset stomach Diarrhea If you are stung by an insect and experience any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. You should also seek follow-up care from an allergist/immunologist. To find an allergist/immunologist near you, use the AAAAI Physician Referral Directory. If you are allergic to insect stings, you can reduce your risk of having an allergic reaction by staying indoors during insect season and always carrying autoinjectable epinephrine. You can also talk to your allergist/immunologist about receiving immunotherapy, which can protect you the next time you are stung by an insect. More Information about Insect Sting Allergy Diseases Related to Insect Sting Allergy Referral Guidelines - Stinging Insect Allergy Health Hazards of Imported Fire Ant Stings Fire Ant Photos Other Resources Drug Guide Tips to Remember Elements of Allergy and Asthma Allergy and Asthma Resources en Español Patient Support Organizations <back>
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