Information on Insect Sting Allergy for patients

1. Insect Sting Allergy
What to know
Sources:
http://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/library/allergy-library/stinging-insect-allergy.aspx
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm048022.htm
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2. Insect Sting Allergy
Insect stings can sometimes cause severe
allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
Learn about the different types of insects that
may cause allergic reactions and understand
what you can do to be prepared.
Insect
Sting
Allergy
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3. Stinging Insects
The most commons stinging insects are:
 Bumble Bees and Honeybees
 Yellow Jackets
 Hornets
 Paper Wasps
 Fire Ants
Insect
Sting
Allergy
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4. Anaphylaxis Symptoms
With a insect sting allergy, there is a chance
you may experience a life-threatening allergic
reaction the restricts breathing and blood
circulation --- this is known as ANAPHYLAXIS.
 Swelling in your mouth, tongue, or throat
 Chest tightness, wheezing, shortness of breath
 Light headedness, dizziness, loss of consciousness
Insect
Sting
Allergy
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Call 911, if you experience:

5. Anaphylaxis vs. Normal Reaction
Normal reactions to a sting or bite include
pain, swelling, and redness around the
bite.
Some people can develop a very large swelling
around the bite that may last for days. This is
called a “large local reaction.”
Someone with severe allergies usually will begin
to show signs of an anaphylactic reaction
within 1 to 15 minutes after an insect sting or
bite. Sometimes a reaction may not begin for up
to 4 hours.
Insect
Sting
Allergy
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6. Cause
When you are stung or bitten, the body
produces an antibody called
Immunoglobulin E (IgE).
The average adult should be able to withstand
hundreds of stings, but for someone with an
allergy, even 1 sting may be life threatening.
In people who are allergic to venom, their body
produces a specific type of IgE to respond to the
venom of the insect sting or bite. This triggers
anaphylaxis – a severe allergic reaction
affecting the entire body.
Insect
Sting
Allergy
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7. If you are stung…
And you are allergic…
 Seek immediate medical treatment
 Make sure people around you know that you may
suffer an allergic reaction and have them call 9-1-1
 If you have been prescribed epinephrine by your
doctor, administer the proper dose.
 Remain clam; anxiety increases blood flow and can
worsen the situation.
 Take steps to prevent shock: Lie flat with your feet
about 12 inches above your head.
Insect
Sting
Allergy
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