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Most of us develop redness and swelling at the site of an insect bite. Yet people with insect allergies have much greater risk in their reaction. ho are allergic. Severe reactions and allergies to insects can lead to anaphylaxis.
It’s important to understand the difference between a “normal” reaction and an allergic reaction in these situations. It is also important to receive a diagnosis from a medical professional so that you can manage the condition and be prepared for any severe reactions.
An allergic reaction occurs when our immune system overreacts to an allergen. In stinging insect allergy, the allergen is venom from a sting. Most serious reactions are caused by five types of insects:
Yellow jackets are black with yellow markings, found in various climates. Their nests are usually located underground, but sometimes found in the walls of buildings, cracks in masonry or in woodpiles.
Honeybees have round, fuzzy bodies with dark brown and yellow markings. They can be found in honeycombs in trees, old tires or other partially protected sites.
Paper wasps are slender with black, brown, red and yellow markings. They live in a circular comb under eaves, behind shutters or in shrubs and woodpiles.
Hornets are black or brown with white, orange or yellow markings. Their nests are gray or brown and are usually found in trees.
Fire ants are reddish-brown ants living in large mounds, mostly in warmer climates. They attack with little warning, inserting highly concentrated toxins that cause burning and pain.