Insect Bite Allergy
Home > Allergies > Insect Bite Allergy
An insect bite can trigger an allergy and produce symptoms like localized inflammation, redness, itching, and irritation at the site of the bite. Hypersensitivity to insect bites can also occur, especially because the bite penetrates the skin and venom is injected into the blood stream. Repeated exposure to the insect venom is what may trigger this. Once in this state, a further exposure may trigger a severe allergic reaction and lead to anaphylactic shock.
How to Identify an Insect Bite Allergy
If you see the following around a site on the skin that looks to have been penetrated by something, it is likely an insect bite allergy:
Insects that Cause an Insect Bite Allergy
Treatment of an Insect Bite Allergy
Firstly, do not scratch the site as it could make the reaction worst by aggravating the tissue and introducing bacteria which may lead to infection. Signs of infection include swelling and a puss discharge.
Remove any stingers or insect parts in the wound with tweezers. Placing ice on the area can help alleviate the inflammation and pain. An antihistamine can provide further relief from itching.