Insect

Bee, wasp, and mosquito stings/bites are the primary triggers for symptoms associated with insect allergies. The most common symptoms associated with an insect allergy are the following: 

• Swelling at and around the sting site 
• Pain/itchiness at the sting site 

More severe symptoms associated with an insect sting/bite:

• Swelling on separate areas of the body (only occurs in about 0.3-7.5% of individuals affected by an insect allergy)
• Hives
• Anaphylaxis

Individuals who suffer from insect allergies should schedule a consultation. 

Testing

• Skin Prick Test: During this quick, easy, and virtually pain free test one of our allergy specialist doctors marks your arm in pen with an assortment of numbers that correspond to a particular insect allergen. A drop of venom from each of the selected insect allergens is carefully placed next to its assigned number and a lancet is used to painlessly place the allergen just under the top layer of the patient’s skin. After 10-15 minutes, the skin is evaluated by one of our top rated immunologists for any inflammation or itchiness (which indicates the patient may be allergic to the sampled allergen), the affected areas are measured, and anti-itch cream is applied to the tested skin. One of our best in class board certified allergy specialist doctors will help you develop an effective treatment plan for your insect allergy that works best for you.  
• Specific IgE (immunoglobulin-E) Blood Test: This method involves the extraction of a small amount of blood from a patient that may suffer from an insect allergy. The blood sample is sent to a lab to identify and measure the level of IgE antibodies the patient has to the presumed insect allergy. This immuno-diagnostic test allows our top notch team of board certified allergy specialist doctors to provide patients with a detailed overview of any detected antibodies that suggest an individual may suffer from an insect allergy. 
• Skin Patch Test: This painless treatment is often employed for infants and small children, as their age groups are more likely to experience a delayed hypersensitivity reaction to an insect allergen. One of our top rated board certified immunologists applies a sample of venom from the selected insect allergen beneath the patient’s top layer of skin under a “Finn chamber” (skin patch that protects the affected area from any external elements). The patient’s skin is evaluated between 48-72 hours after application to determine the presence of any insect allergies. 

Treatment

• Topical Anti-Itch Cream: Your best in class board certified immunologist may recommend an over the counter anti-itch cream to treat symptoms associated with an insect allergy. Depending on each person’s immune response to the allergen, your top of the line allergy specialist doctor may prescribe a steroid cream to reduce inflammation, itchiness, and general irritation at the sting site. 
• Auto-Injectable Epinephrine (EpiPen®): If you experience a severe reaction to an insect sting or bite, your immunologist will prescribe you auto-injectable epinephrine to carry with you at all times. Those who suffer from severe allergic reactions to insect stings/bites must carry this device with them at all times in order to stay protected from an unexpected insect sting or bite.
  Immunotherapy: Subcutaneous injections gradually build up immune resistance to an insect allergen. Treatment length is dependent upon the severity of symptoms and insect type.

The sooner you schedule a consultation, the sooner you can experience relief!

Allergy & Asthma Center of Long Island
9 Center Drive, Roslyn, NY 11576
(516) 699-7790