Stings from insects such as wasps, yellow jackets, hornets, bees, and fire ants (present in the southeast U.S. an parts of Texas), can result in allergic reactions.
Symptoms of allergic reactions to stinging insects include hives or swelling in areas away from the sting site, chest tightness/wheezing, constriction of the throat, dizziness/blood pressure, as well loss of consciousness. If you have experienced an allergic reaction to an insect sting, there is a 60% chance that it will happen again.
The treatment of insect sting allergy includes avoidance, the use of injectable epinephrine (a portable device that can be self-injected), and allergy shots (immunotherapy). Allergy shots are a highly effective way to prevent future insect sting reactions. Within several months, you can escape from the constant fear of life-threatening insect sting reactions and resume a normal lifestyle.
