Insect Allergy
Insect Allergy Services Offered in Riverview, FL
Insect sting allergies affect about three in 100 people living in the United States. At Precision Allergy Asthma and Immunology Care in Riverview, Florida, Rajivi Rucker, MD, MPH, and Craig Kalik, MD, diagnose and help you manage insect allergies to avoid serious, sometimes life-threatening, complications. Schedule an appointment by calling the office or requesting a visit online today.
Insect Allergy FAQ's
What is an insect allergy?
An insect allergy is a reaction to being stung by an insect. Common causes of allergic reactions include stings from:
- Wasps
- Hornets
- Honey bees
- Fire ants
- Yellow jackets
Symptoms range in severity from mild to severe and can sometimes be fatal. Knowing which insect venom you’re allergic to can help manage any reactions. Precision Allergy Asthma and Immunology Care offers personalized treatment plans.
What are the symptoms of an insect allergy?
Allergic reactions to insect stings may include:
- Pain
- Itching
- Swelling
- Flushing
- Redness
- Hives
- Cough
- Anaphylaxis (severe symptoms)
An allergic reaction might last several hours or longer. Signs of anaphylaxis are shortness of breath, a sudden drop in blood pressure, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness. It can be fatal for some people when not treated.
What are the risk factors for insect allergies?
Insect allergy risk factors may include:
- Previous insect stings
- Family history of insect allergies
- Older age
- Being male
- Mastocytosis (elevated mast cell count)
Up to 5.1% of people in the United States have experienced a life-threatening reaction to insect stings.
How is an insect allergy diagnosed?
Diagnosing insect allergies at Precision Allergy Asthma and Immunology Care requires a review of your symptoms and medical history. Your provider may complete a physical exam and order blood tests and skin testing, which exposes your skin to small amounts of potential allergens to learn which your body reacts to.
How are insect allergies treated?
Treating insect allergies may consist of one or more of the following:
- Allergen avoidance
- Medications
- Allergy shots
- Allergy drops
- Epinephrine injections
Venom immunotherapy is a long-term treatment for insect allergies. During this treatment, you’re exposed to gradually increased doses of venom to improve your body’s tolerance to insect stings over time. Immunotherapy helps reduce the severity of an allergic reaction, making it less life-threatening.
Follow up with the Precision Allergy Asthma and Immunology Care team to ensure your treatment is effective, and carry epinephrine injectors with you to prevent serious complications caused by insect stings.
Schedule an insect allergy evaluation at Precision Allergy Asthma and Immunology Care by calling the office or requesting a visit online today.
