Venom Hypersensitivity
Insect stings (bees, wasps, yellow jackets, hornets, and fire ants) can lead to life-threatening allergic reactions. If you have had an allergic reaction to an insect sting in the past, you have an approximately 60 percent chance of a similar or more serious reaction when you are stung again. We can prevent this.
The warning signs appear quickly
Insects that trigger allergic reactions include bees, wasps, yellow jackets, hornets, and fire ants. The symptoms include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives in the form of a red, raised welt that spreads beyond the sting
- Swelling of the face, throat, or mouth
- Wheezing or difficulty swallowing
- Restlessness and anxiety
- Rapid pulse
- Dizziness or a sharp drop in blood pressure
- Itchy eyes, nose, throat
- Nasal congestion
- Tightness in the throat or chest
- Coughing
- Light-headedness
- Nausea or vomiting
Immediate action can be a lifesaver
If you or someone around you is experiencing these symptoms, seek emergency care immediately. Allergic reactions can occur within minutes of a sting and can result in unconsciousness in 10 minutes or less.
Quick and effective treatment makes the difference
Acute allergic reactions to insect stings are reversed by treatment with a drug called epinephrine. If you have had such a reaction in the past, you may be instructed to keep epinephrine with you at all times so you can self-inject this medication if you are stung.
Prevent dangerous reactions with venom immunotherapy (stinging insect allergy shots)
Our board-certified allergist/immunologists can treat you to prevent future reactions to insect stings. Venom immunotherapy involves administering gradually increasing doses of venom that caused your reaction. Such treatment gives almost 100% protection against subsequent reactions, and if a reaction does occur, it is usually mild and not life-threatening. If you have had such a reaction, our board-certified allergists can determine if you are a candidate for venom immunotherapy (stinging insect allergy shots).
Trusted experience, leadership, and commitment
Our team of physicians and healthcare professionals are highly experienced and trained to provide you with the best care. Our physicians are known nationally and internationally for leadership in their specialty and for conducting leading-edge basic and clinical research. They are committed to your personal healthcare.
Don’t take chances. Call (813) 971-9743 today for an appointment at one our two Tampa area locations.
