According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, or ACAAI, more than 2 million Americans are allergic to bug bites, which cause about 50 deaths a year and send a half million people to the emergency room. This is because people with an allergy to bug bites run the risk of a rare allergic condition called anaphylaxis, in which the body goes into a state of shock. An allergist can determine the type of insect venom a person is allergic to and the proper treatment.
Causes
According to Penn State University, when a bug bites a person, it releases venom into the blood, causing the immune system to respond with antibodies to fight off the intruding venom. During this process, antibodies cause histamine to be released in the blood. Histamine damages cells that cause the allergic reaction symptoms. Histamine affects the skin, mucous membranes and mucous glands. If someone is bit or stung once or multiple times, he could experience anaphylactic shock.
Types
The ACAAI says the common bugs that cause allergic reactions are honeybees, bumblebees, fire ants, yellow jackets, paper wasps and hornets. Aside from fire ants, most of the insects that cause allergic reactions are flying insects that use a stinger to inject venom into the victim's body. Avoiding these insects is the best way to prevent an allergic reaction to their bites.
Symptoms
Symptoms begin to develop within the first 15 to 30 minutes after the bug bite or sting, according to Penn State. Symptoms begin with skin irritation, itchiness and hives, accompanied by nasal congestion and eye irritation. The reaction may cause the individual to sneeze excessively, cough, wheeze, feel severely congested or experience swelling in the lips, tongue or throat. An allergist needs to be seen if someone experiences these symptoms.
Treatment
According to the ACAAI, avoidance is the most effective treatment. Don't walk barefoot outdoors, avoid open soda cans where insects can fly into, keep food covered, wear perfume-free deodorants and don't wear colorful clothing while outdoors. Allergy shots, or immunotherapy, are used to desensitize the immune system to specific bug bites or stings.
Complications
Anaphylaxis is is a life-threatening complication, according to Penn State. Common symptoms include weakness, chest tightness, lightheadedness, confusion, anxiety, difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness. This condition requires immediate medical attention by calling 911.
