Insect Sting Allergy Care in Silver Spring, Maryland
Most insect stings cause temporary pain, redness, or swelling. For people with a venom allergy, however, a sting can trigger a serious allergic reaction. Our team evaluates children and adults with suspected stinging-insect allergies and helps patients understand testing, emergency planning, and treatment options.
Which Insects Can Cause Allergic Reactions?
Allergic reactions are most commonly associated with stinging insects whose venom is injected during a sting.
- Honeybees
- Wasps
- Yellow jackets
- Hornets
- Fire ants in areas where they are present
Normal Reaction vs. Allergic Reaction
A small area of pain, redness and swelling around the sting is common and does not necessarily mean someone has a venom allergy. Larger swelling or symptoms away from the sting site may require further evaluation.
Symptoms of a Serious Sting Reaction
- Hives away from the sting site
- Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- Dizziness or fainting
- Widespread itching or flushing
- Anaphylaxis
Emergency Reactions
A severe systemic reaction after an insect sting requires immediate emergency medical attention. Patients at risk may be prescribed epinephrine and should understand how and when to use it.
How Is Insect Sting Allergy Diagnosed & Treated?
Treatment:
Management may include sting-avoidance education, emergency preparedness, and venom immunotherapy for selected patients with confirmed venom allergy.
Diagnosis:
Evaluation includes the type of insect if known, timing of symptoms, reaction severity, prior stings, treatment received, and other health factors. Venom allergy testing may be recommended when the history suggests a systemic allergic reaction.
Venom Immunotherapy
Venom immunotherapy is a specialized form of allergy treatment that uses carefully controlled amounts of insect venom to reduce the risk of future systemic reactions in appropriate patients.
When Should You See an Allergist?
An evaluation is especially important after a sting causes symptoms beyond the local sting area, including hives, swelling away from the sting site, breathing difficulty, dizziness, or anaphylaxis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about insect sting allergies and treatments we offer at our office in Silver Spring.
Still have a question?
Call our office and our team will be happy to answer any questions you may have about treatments, scheduling, or anything else.
Does a large swollen sting reaction mean I am allergic?
A large local reaction can occur without a life-threatening venom allergy. The reaction pattern and symptoms help determine whether testing is appropriate.
Which insects cause venom allergies?
Honeybees, wasps, yellow jackets and hornets are common causes of venom allergy.
What is venom immunotherapy?
Venom immunotherapy is a treatment that gradually exposes the immune system to controlled amounts of insect venom to reduce the risk of future systemic reactions.
Should I carry epinephrine after a severe sting reaction?
Patients at risk for anaphylaxis may be prescribed epinephrine and should follow the emergency plan provided by their healthcare professional.
How is insect sting allergy tested?
Testing may include venom skin testing and/or blood testing depending on the reaction history and clinical circumstances.
Do you treat children with insect sting allergies?
Yes. Our team evaluates both children and adults.
Get Treatment for Insect Sting Allergies
If these symptoms or concerns are affecting you or your child, our team can help determine whether allergy or immunology evaluation is appropriate and create an individualized care plan.
Phone: (240) 531-2902
