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Not only is summer in season, but honeybees, hornets, yellow jackets, wasps, and fire ants are too. These insects are known to sting by injecting venom into the skin which may lead to an allergic reaction. Contrary to popular belief, it is far more common to fear an insect than actually be allergic to one. It is crucial to understand the difference between normal and allergic reactions.
In most cases, insect stings are just irritating and your child will react normally. A normal reaction consists of pain, swelling, and redness at the sting site. This type of reaction can typically be treated at home. An allergic reaction will cause the immune system to overreact to the venom, and may even be fatal in some cases. Knowing the difference between these types of reactions is essential to tell if immediate medical action is needed. The severity and type of reaction from a sting typically varies from person to person.
The most serious reaction your child can experience is anaphylactic shock. Anaphylaxis is a reaction that impairs breathing due to swelling of the throat and tongue and causes your body to go into shock. It can occur within minutes after the sting along with dizziness, a sharp drop in blood pressure, and/or a loss of consciousness. Despite anaphylaxis being far less common, it is potentially life threatening and requires immediate medical attention. If your child does go into anaphylactic shock, you must use an epinephrine injector immediately if you have one. If you do not have epinephrine, immediately call 911 or drive to the emergency room if close.
As far as insect sting allergy management and treatment goes, it may be beneficial to consider an evaluation by you primary care doctor. Occasionally a referral to an allergist is needed and even allergy shots (immunotherapy). If anaphylactic symptoms develop, always inject epinephrine (adrenaline). The simplest solution is actually the best one, which is trying to avoid insect stings all together. Unfortunately, most insect repellents are not effective when combatting stinging insects, but they can be avoided in other ways by following these tips:
If your child experiences any type of allergic reaction to an insect at all, there is a 60 percent chance of a similar or worse reaction if stung again. If you think your child may possibly have an insect allergy, you can contact your CarolinaEast pediatrician at 252-636-1919 to schedule an evaluation.
Sources:
Acaai.org
Mayoclinic.org
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