What Are the Treatments for an Insect Bite Allergy?

Insect bites and stings are common occurrences, especially in the spring and summer. Most people have a mild reaction that can be treated at home, though some people have severe allergic reactions. Bees, wasps and fire ants are the most common cause of severe reactions. Seek immediate professional medical help for anyone experiencing a severe allergic reaction.

Common Symptoms

• The most common symptoms of an insect bite or sting include redness, swelling and itching at the site of the bite.

At-Home Treatment

• These symptoms can be treated at home by cleaning the area with soap and water. Apply an ice pack for 20 minutes to reduce swelling and redness. Apply an over-the-counter antihistamine or calamine lotion to reduce itching.

Severe Symptoms

• More severe symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, hives, swelling and unconsciousness. These are signs of anaphylatic shock. Open wounds, infections, fevers, or red lines appearing from the wound are also severe symptoms of an infection

Medical Treatment

• Anyone experiencing these symptoms should be taken to the emergency room immediately. Doctors will perform a physical exam checking the skin, cardiovascular system, respiratory system and the mouth. Patients will be treated with epinephrine and antihistamine injections.Steroids are commonly given.Severe cases may be treated with IV medicines and oxygen. Oral antibiotics are given to patients with an infected bite or sting.

Anaphylaxis Kit

• Patients diagnosed with an allergy to bee stings or insect bites may be given an anaphylaxis kit. This includes antihistamines and an epinephrine shot. Ask the doctor to show you the correct way to administer the shots.