How do insect sting allergies differ from regular bug bites. What are the common symptoms of insect sting allergies. How are insect sting allergies diagnosed and treated. What preventive measures can be taken against insect stings. How effective is venom immunotherapy for treating insect sting allergies. What should you do in case of a severe allergic reaction to an insect sting. Why is it important to consult an allergist if you suspect an insect sting allergy.

Understanding Insect Sting Allergies: More Than Just a Bug Bite

Insect sting allergies can often be mistaken for regular bug bites, but they are far more serious and potentially life-threatening. While most people experience only minor discomfort from insect stings, those with allergies can have severe reactions that require immediate medical attention.

Insect sting allergies are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to the venom injected by certain insects. This hypersensitivity can lead to a range of symptoms, from localized swelling to anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially fatal allergic reaction.

Common Culprits of Insect Sting Allergies

• Honeybees
• Wasps
• Yellow jackets
• Hornets
• Fire ants

Recognizing the Symptoms of Insect Sting Allergies

Identifying the symptoms of an insect sting allergy is crucial for prompt and effective treatment. While mild reactions are common, severe allergic reactions require immediate medical intervention.

Mild to Moderate Symptoms

• Swelling at the sting site
• Redness and itching
• Pain or burning sensation
• Mild nausea or stomach cramps

Severe Allergic Reaction Symptoms

1. Difficulty breathing or wheezing
2. Swelling of the throat or tongue
3. Dizziness or fainting
4. Rapid pulse
5. Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
6. Hives or itching in areas other than the sting site

What distinguishes a severe allergic reaction from a mild one? A severe allergic reaction, also known as anaphylaxis, involves multiple body systems and can rapidly progress to a life-threatening situation. It requires immediate use of epinephrine and emergency medical care.

Diagnosing Insect Sting Allergies: The Role of Allergists

If you suspect you may have an allergy to insect venom, consulting an allergist is the best course of action. Allergists are specialized medical professionals who can accurately diagnose and treat insect sting allergies.

Diagnostic Process

1. Detailed medical history
2. Skin-prick test
3. Intradermal skin test
4. Blood test

How does an allergist diagnose an insect sting allergy? The process typically begins with a comprehensive medical history, focusing on previous sting experiences and reactions. This is followed by one or more diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of specific IgE antibodies to insect venom.

Skin-Prick Test

In a skin-prick test, a small amount of insect venom is placed on the skin, which is then pricked with a sterile probe. A raised, reddish spot forming within 15-20 minutes indicates a potential allergy.

Intradermal Skin Test

If the skin-prick test is inconclusive, an intradermal skin test may be performed. This involves injecting a small amount of venom extract just under the skin and observing for an allergic reaction after about 15 minutes.

Blood Test

A blood test can be used to detect the presence of IgE antibodies specific to insect venom. This test may be recommended if skin tests are negative or cannot be performed.

It’s important to note that the strength of a reaction to these tests does not necessarily indicate how severe a future allergic reaction might be.

Treatment Approaches for Insect Sting Allergies

Managing insect sting allergies involves a two-pronged approach: emergency treatment of acute reactions and long-term preventive treatment of the underlying allergy.

Emergency Treatment

What should you do in case of a severe allergic reaction to an insect sting? Immediate administration of epinephrine is crucial. This medication can reverse the symptoms of anaphylaxis and buy time to get emergency medical care.

• Epinephrine auto-injector
• Antihistamines
• Corticosteroids
• Intravenous fluids
• Oxygen therapy

People with known insect sting allergies should always carry two doses of injectable epinephrine and know how to use them. Even if symptoms improve after using epinephrine, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention.

Long-Term Management: Venom Immunotherapy

Venom immunotherapy is a highly effective long-term treatment for insect sting allergies. This treatment involves administering gradually increasing doses of insect venom to decrease the patient’s sensitivity.

How effective is venom immunotherapy in treating insect sting allergies? Studies have shown that venom immunotherapy can reduce the risk of future allergic reactions to that of the general population. It allows individuals who previously lived under the constant threat of severe reactions to return to normal lives.

The process typically involves weekly injections of gradually increasing amounts of venom over several months, followed by maintenance doses every 4-8 weeks for 3-5 years. After this period, many people can discontinue treatment with lasting protection.

Preventing Insect Stings: Practical Strategies

While treating insect sting allergies is crucial, prevention is equally important. By taking certain precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of being stung.

General Prevention Tips

• Avoid wearing bright colors or floral patterns outdoors
• Don’t use scented products when spending time outside
• Keep food covered when eating outdoors
• Wear closed-toe shoes when walking in grassy areas
• Be cautious when drinking from open beverage containers outdoors
• Avoid areas where insects nest or congregate

Specific Insect Avoidance Strategies

Different insects require different avoidance strategies. For example:

Honeybees: These insects are generally non-aggressive and only sting when provoked. They’re attracted to bright colors and sweet scents. Avoid walking barefoot in clover-filled lawns where bees often feed.

Wasps and yellow jackets: These insects are more aggressive and can sting multiple times. They’re attracted to sweet foods and meats. Be cautious around garbage cans, picnic areas, and ripe fruit on the ground.

Fire ants: These ants are common in the southern United States. They build large mound nests in sunny areas. Avoid disturbing these mounds and wear closed-toe shoes in areas where fire ants are common.

Living with Insect Sting Allergies: Lifestyle Adjustments

Being diagnosed with an insect sting allergy can be daunting, but with proper management and lifestyle adjustments, individuals can lead normal, active lives.

Emergency Preparedness

Always carry two epinephrine auto-injectors and wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace indicating your allergy. Educate family members, friends, and coworkers about your allergy and how to use the auto-injector in case of an emergency.

Outdoor Activities

While it’s important to take precautions, having an insect sting allergy doesn’t mean you have to avoid the outdoors entirely. Consider these tips:

• Plan outdoor activities during times when insects are less active
• Wear appropriate clothing (long sleeves, pants, closed-toe shoes)
• Use insect repellents
• Carry a sting kit with antihistamines and your epinephrine auto-injectors

Home Environment

Make your home and yard less attractive to stinging insects:

• Keep garbage cans tightly covered
• Avoid leaving pet food outdoors
• Remove sources of standing water
• Have a professional remove any nests near your home

Advances in Insect Sting Allergy Research

The field of insect sting allergy research is continually evolving, with new insights and treatment approaches emerging. These advancements offer hope for improved management and potentially even prevention of insect sting allergies.

Component-Resolved Diagnostics

What is component-resolved diagnostics and how does it improve allergy testing? This advanced diagnostic technique allows for more precise identification of the specific proteins in insect venom that an individual is allergic to. This can lead to more tailored and effective immunotherapy treatments.

Sublingual Immunotherapy

While venom immunotherapy is typically administered through injections, research is ongoing into sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) for insect sting allergies. SLIT involves placing small amounts of allergen under the tongue and may offer a more convenient alternative to injections for some patients.

Molecular Approaches

Researchers are exploring ways to modify the structure of venom proteins to make them less allergenic while still effective for immunotherapy. This could potentially reduce the risk of side effects during treatment.

Biomarkers for Treatment Response

Scientists are working to identify biomarkers that could predict how well an individual will respond to venom immunotherapy. This could help tailor treatment plans and determine optimal duration of therapy for each patient.

The Importance of Awareness and Education

Raising awareness about insect sting allergies is crucial for both prevention and prompt treatment of allergic reactions. Education plays a vital role in helping individuals recognize symptoms, seek appropriate care, and manage their condition effectively.

Public Education Initiatives

Many allergy organizations and healthcare providers are working to increase public understanding of insect sting allergies. These efforts include:

• School-based education programs
• Community workshops and seminars
• Online resources and webinars
• Public service announcements

Healthcare Provider Training

Ensuring that all healthcare providers, not just allergists, are well-informed about insect sting allergies is crucial. This includes:

• Recognition of anaphylaxis symptoms
• Proper use of epinephrine auto-injectors
• Understanding of long-term management options
• Knowledge of when to refer patients to an allergist

Patient Empowerment

Empowering patients with knowledge about their condition is essential for effective self-management. This includes understanding:

• The nature of their allergy
• How to use emergency medications
• The importance of carrying epinephrine at all times
• Strategies for avoiding insect stings
• The benefits and process of venom immunotherapy

Why is patient education so crucial in managing insect sting allergies? Informed patients are better equipped to prevent allergic reactions, recognize symptoms early, and take appropriate action in case of an emergency. This knowledge can literally be life-saving.

Global Perspectives on Insect Sting Allergies

Insect sting allergies are a global health concern, but their prevalence and management can vary significantly across different regions of the world. Understanding these variations is important for developing effective, culturally appropriate strategies for prevention and treatment.

Geographical Variations

The types of stinging insects and the prevalence of allergies to their venom can vary greatly depending on geographical location:

• In North America and Europe, honeybees, wasps, and yellow jackets are the most common causes of sting allergies
• In Australia, jack jumper ants are a significant cause of anaphylaxis
• In South America, fire ants and wasps are more prevalent
• In some parts of Africa and Asia, scorpion stings are a significant concern

Access to Diagnosis and Treatment

The availability of allergy specialists, diagnostic tests, and treatments like venom immunotherapy can vary widely between countries and even within different regions of the same country. In some areas, limited access to these resources can make managing insect sting allergies more challenging.

Cultural Factors

Cultural beliefs and practices can influence how insect sting allergies are perceived and managed in different parts of the world. For example:

• In some cultures, traditional remedies may be preferred over modern medical treatments
• Attitudes towards insects and their stings can vary, affecting prevention strategies
• Social stigma around allergies may impact diagnosis and treatment in some communities

Global Research Collaborations

International collaborations in insect sting allergy research are helping to address these global variations. These efforts include:

• Standardization of diagnostic and treatment protocols
• Sharing of data on regional differences in insect venom composition
• Development of strategies to improve access to diagnosis and treatment in resource-limited settings

How do global perspectives enhance our understanding of insect sting allergies? By considering diverse geographical, cultural, and socioeconomic factors, researchers and healthcare providers can develop more comprehensive and effective approaches to managing these potentially life-threatening allergies worldwide.

Insect Sting Allergies | Symptoms & Treatment

Diagnosing

If you are concerned that you may have an </span>” rel=”tooltip”>allergy to insect venom, your best option is to see an allergist.

Your allergist should take a detailed medical history, including questions about previous stings (how many there have been and where you were stung), your reaction to those stings (what you experienced, how long the reaction lasted and what you did to get relief) and any additional symptoms.

Your allergist may perform one or more tests to diagnose allergy to insect venom, such as a skin-prick test, an intradermal skin test or a blood test.

In the skin-prick test, a small amount of a liquid containing insect venom is placed on the back or forearm, which is then pricked with a small, sterile probe to allow the liquid to seep into the skin. If a raised, reddish spot forms within 15 to 20 minutes, that can indicate an allergy. In the blood test, a blood sample is sent to a laboratory to test for the presence of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to insect venom.

If the skin prick test is negative or inconclusive your allergist will likely recommend an intradermal skin test, in which a small amount of venom extract is injected just under the skin. The site is examined after about 15 minutes for signs of an allergic reaction. This test is considered more accurate than the skin-prick or blood tests in determining the presence of IgE antibodies. If both skin prick and intradermal skin tests are negative then your allergist may recommend a blood test.

The strength of a reaction to a skin or blood test does not indicate how severe your allergic reaction will be the next time you are stung.

Management and Treatment

Insect sting allergy is treated in a two-step approach:

1. The first step is the emergency treatment of the symptoms of a serious reaction when they occur.
2. The second step is preventive treatment of the underlying allergy with venom immunotherapy.

Life-threatening allergic reactions can progress very rapidly and require immediate medical attention. Emergency treatment usually includes administration of certain drugs, such as epinephrine, antihistamines, and in some cases, corticosteroids, intravenous fluids, oxygen and other treatments. Once stabilized, these patients sometimes require close observation in the hospital overnight.

Injectable epinephrine for self-administration is often prescribed as emergency rescue medication for treating an allergic reaction. People who have had previous allergic reactions and rely on epinephrine must remember to carry it with them at all times. Also, because one dose may not be enough to reverse the reaction, recent guidelines recommend keeping two doses of injectable epinephrine available and to activate emergency medical services if used. Even if symptoms improve after a single dose of epinephrine, immediate medical attention following an insect sting is recommended.

Venom Immunotherapy

The long-term treatment of insect sting allergy is called venom immunotherapy, a highly effective program administered by an allergist, which can prevent future allergic reactions to insect stings.

Venom immunotherapy involves administering gradually increasing doses of venom to decrease a patient’s sensitivity to the venom. This can reduce the risk of a future allergic reaction to that of the general population. In a matter of weeks to months, people who previously lived under the constant threat of severe reactions to insect stings can return to leading normal lives.

If you think you might be allergic to insect stings, talk to your allergist. Based on your past history and certain tests, the allergist will determine if you are a candidate for skin testing and immunotherapy.

Avoiding Insect Stings

Knowing how to avoid stings from fire ants, honeybees, wasps, hornets and yellow jackets leads to a more enjoyable summer for everyone. Stinging insects are most active during the late spring, summer, summer and early fall. Insect repellents do not work against stinging insects.

Yellow jackets will nest in the ground and in walls. Hornets and wasps will nest in bushes, trees and on buildings. Use extreme caution when working or playing in these areas. Avoid open garbage cans and exposed food at picnics, which attract yellow jackets. Also, try to reduce the amount of exposed skin when outdoors.

Effective methods for insecticide treatment of fire ant mounds use attractant baits. These baits often contain soybean oil and corn grits combined with chemical agents. The bait is picked up by the worker ants and taken deeper into the mound to the queen. It can take weeks for these insecticides to work.

Allergists recommend the following additional precautions to avoid insect stings:

• Avoid wearing sandals or walking barefoot in the grass. Honeybees and bumblebees forage on white clover, a weed that grows in lawns throughout the country.
• Never swat at a flying insect. If need be, gently brush it aside or patiently wait for it to leave.
• Do not drink from open beverage cans. Stinging insects will crawl inside a can attracted by the sweet beverage.
• When eating outdoors, try to keep food covered at all times.
• Garbage cans stored outside should be covered with tight-fitting lids.
• Avoid sweet-smelling perfumes, hair sprays, colognes and deodorants.
• Avoid wearing bright-colored clothing.
• Yard work and gardening should be done with caution. Wearing shoes and socks and using work gloves will prevent stings on hands and feet and provide time to get away from an unexpected mound.
• Keep window and door screens in good repair. Drive with car windows closed.
• Keep prescribed medications handy at all times and follow the instructions if you are stung. These medications are for immediate emergency use while en route to a hospital emergency room for observation and further treatment.

If you have had an allergic reaction to an insect sting, it’s important that you see an allergist.

Fire Ant Sting

Fire ant sting allergy treatment

Fire ant sting allergy is treated in a two-step approach:

• The first step is the emergency treatment of the symptoms of a serious reaction when they occur.
• The second step is preventive treatment of the underlying allergy with whole body extract immunotherapy.

Life-threatening allergic reactions can progress very rapidly and require immediate medical attention. Emergency treatment usually includes administration of certain drugs, such as epinephrine, antihistamines, and in some cases, corticosteroids, intravenous fluids, oxygen and other treatments. Once stabilized, these patients sometimes require close observation in the hospital overnight.

Injectable epinephrine is often prescribed as emergency rescue medication for treating an allergic reaction. People who have had previous allergic reactions and rely on epinephrine must remember to carry it with them at all times.

Also, because one dose may not be enough to reverse the reaction, recent guidelines recommend keeping two doses of injectable epinephrine available and to activate emergency medical services if used. Even if symptoms improve after a single dose of epinephrine, immediate medical attention following an insect sting is recommended.

What is a normal reaction to a fire ant sting, and how is it treated?

The severity of a fire ant sting reaction varies from person to person. One of the main differences between fire ants and other insects is that a usual sting event consists of multiple fire ants stinging. This is because when a fire ant mound is disturbed hundreds to thousands of fire ants respond. In addition, each ant can sting repeatedly. Each ant will bite and hold on with its mandibles (jaw) and sting several times. If not removed, this results in a little semi-circular pattern of stings. Since fire ants hold on with their mandibles, they often have to be pulled off individually and are not easily brushed off when they are stinging.

Almost all people stung by fire ants develop an itchy, localized hive or lump at the sting site, which usually subsides within 30 to 60 minutes. This is followed by a small blister within four hours. This usually appears to become filled with pus-like material by eight to 24 hours. However, what is seen is really dead tissue, and the blister has little chance of being infected unless it is opened. When healed, these lesions may leave scars.

Fire ant sting treatment is aimed at preventing secondary bacterial infection, which may occur if the pustule is scratched or broken. Clean the blisters with soap and water to prevent secondary infection. Do not break the blister. If a blister is accidentally opened, careful attention to keeping the area clean with soap and water should still prevent infection. Topical corticosteroid ointments and oral antihistamines may relieve the itching associated with these reactions.

Pets, Dog and Cat Allergies | Symptoms & Treatment

Overview

A pet "}" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":8963,"3":{"1":0},"4":[null,2,16777215],"11":4,"12":0,"16":10}">Allergies are inappropriate or exaggerated reactions of the immune system to substances that, in the majority of people, cause no symptoms. Symptoms of the allergic diseases may be caused by exposure of the skin to a chemical, of the respiratory system to particles of dust or pollen (or other substances), or of the stomach and intestines to a particular food.</span>” rel=”tooltip”>allergy can contribute to constant allergy symptoms, as exposure can occur at work, school, day care or in other indoor environments, even if a pet is not present.

Pet Allergy Symptoms

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Facial pain (from nasal congestion)
• Coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and wheezing
• Watery, red or itchy eyes
• Skin rash or hives

Pet Allergy Management and Treatment

• Avoid being around dogs and cats; if you have a pet at home, take specific steps to limit exposure.
• Nasal sprays, antihistamines and bronchodilators can help relieve symptoms.
• Consider allergy shots ( Immunotherapy involves giving gradually increasing doses of the substance, or allergen, to which the person is allergic. The incremental increases of the allergen cause the immune system to become less sensitive to the substance, perhaps by causing production of a particular "blocking" antibody, which reduces the symptoms of allergy when the substance is encountered in the future.</span>” rel=”tooltip”>immunotherapy).

Do you want to know if it’s Fluffy or Fido causing you to wheeze and sneeze?

It’s time for an allergist.

Cat Allergies

If your nose runs and your eyes water or you start sneezing and wheezing after petting or playing with a cat, you likely have a cat allergy. A cat allergy can contribute to constant allergy symptoms, as exposure can occur at work, school, day care or in other indoor environments, even if a cat is not present.

Cats produce multiple allergens (proteins that can cause allergy). These allergens are found on the fur and skin and in saliva. All cats produce allergens; studies have not shown that cats can be hypoallergenic (meaning that they don’t cause allergy). Homes with more than one cat have higher levels of cat allergens. Characteristics such as the length of a cat’s hair, its sex and the amount of time a cat spends indoors are not associated with cat allergen levels.

Dust and pollen in a cat’s coat can also cause allergy symptoms. In those cases, the allergy is to the dust or pollen, not to the cat.

Of all the pollen, and mold, and animal dander, dust mites that we have studied, the cat dander is absolutely the smallest dander. And what that means is that allergen remains airborne for at least 30 minutes after you disturb it in the room. That just allows the allergic patient to have a constant exposure to that allergen.

Allergist Dana Wallace, MD

Cat Allergy Symptoms

Cat allergy symptoms range from mild to severe, depending on an individual’s sensitivity and the level of exposure to allergens. Those variables may also influence how quickly symptoms develop after exposure. Highly sensitive people can develop symptoms, including breathing problems or a rash, within minutes of touching a cat or entering a house with a cat.

Cat allergy symptoms may include:

• Sneezing or a runny or stuffy nose
• Facial pain (from nasal congestion)
• Coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and wheezing
• Watery, red or itchy eyes
• Skin rash or hives

Some people may also develop a rash or hives after being scratched by a cat.

Diagnosing Cat Allergies

Do you suspect you’re suffering from cat allergies? An allergist can provide you with a diagnosis and treatment.

A skin-prick test is the most common way of diagnosing a cat allergy. For this test, a small amount of an extract of cat allergen is placed on your skin. Your skin is then pricked with a small, sterile probe, allowing the liquid to seep under the skin’s surface. You’ll then be monitored for swelling and redness or other signs of a reaction, signaling an allergy. Results typically become evident within 15 to 20 minutes.

Even if you’re sure your symptoms are caused by a cat, it’s a good idea to be tested, since the symptoms may actually be caused by other environmental exposures.

Cat Allergy Management and Treatment

Avoidance is the best way to manage a cat allergy. If you have a cat and are allergic to cats, consider removing the cat from the home.

If you have a cat but don’t want to find it a new home, or if your family wants a cat even though someone in the household is allergic, here are some strategies that may help keep symptoms at bay:

• Keep the cat out of your bedroom and restrict it to only a few rooms. Be advised that keeping the cat in only one room will not limit the allergens to that room.
• Don’t pet, hug or kiss the cat; if you do, wash your hands with soap and water.
• High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) cleaners run continuously in a bedroom or living room can reduce allergen levels over time.
• Regular use of a high-efficiency vacuum cleaner or a central vacuum can reduce allergen levels.
• Giving your cat a bath at least once a week can reduce airborne cat allergen.

Treatments for cat allergy vary, depending on the symptoms.

Your allergist can help determine what treatment would be best to treat your cat allergy. Nasal symptoms often are treated with steroid nasal sprays, oral antihistamines or other oral medications. Eye symptoms are often treated with antihistamine eyedrops. Respiratory or "}" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":8963,"3":{"1":0},"4":[null,2,16777215],"11":4,"12":0,"16":10}">Asthma is a chronic, inflammatory lung disease characterized by recurrent breathing problems. People with asthma have acute episodes where the air passages in their lungs get narrower, and breathing becomes more difficult. Sometimes episodes of asthma are triggered by allergens, although infection, exercise, cold air and other factors are also important triggers.</span>” rel=”tooltip”>asthma symptoms can be treated with inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators to either prevent or relieve respiratory symptoms.

Allergy shots (immunotherapy) are an effective treatment of allergies by building tolerance over time through gradually injecting increasing doses of an allergen.

Is there an allergy-free cat?

Cats produce multiple allergens (proteins that can cause allergy). These allergens are found on the fur and skin and in saliva. All cats produce allergens; studies have not shown that cats can be hypoallergenic. Homes with more than one cat have higher levels of cat allergens. Characteristics such as the length of a cat’s hair, its sex and the amount of time a cat spends indoors are not associated with cat allergen levels.

Dog Allergy

If your nose runs or you start sneezing and wheezing after petting or playing with a dog, you may be allergic to dogs.

Dogs produce multiple allergens, or proteins that can cause allergy. These allergens are found in dog hair, dander, saliva and urine. All dogs produce allergens; studies have not shown that dogs can be hypoallergenic (not cause allergy). Dog allergen levels increase if the dog lives indoors and are higher in the rooms where a dog is allowed.

Dust and pollen in a dog’s coat can also cause allergy symptoms. In those cases, the allergy is to dust or pollen, not to the dog.

If you remove a cat from a home, you clean all the walls down, do the laundry, do the draperies, it still takes six months for the level of cat protein to get down to normal.

Allergist Warner Carr, MD

Dog Allergy Symptoms

Do you suspect you’re suffering from dog allergies? An allergist can provide proper diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms may include:

• Sneezing or a runny or stuffy nose
• Facial pain (from nasal congestion)
• Coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and wheezing
• Watery, red or itchy eyes
• Skin rash or hives

Some people may also develop a rash or hives after being scratched or licked by a dog.

Diagnosing Dog Allergies

Do you suspect you’re suffering from dog allergies? An allergist can evaluate whether can provide proper diagnosis and treatment.

A skin-prick test is the most common way of diagnosing a dog allergy. For this test, a small amount of an extract of dog allergen is placed on your skin. Your skin is then pricked with a small, sterile probe, allowing the liquid to seep under the skin’s surface. You’ll then be monitored for swelling and redness or other signs of a reaction, signaling an allergy. Results typically become evident within 15 to 20 minutes.

Even if you’re sure your symptoms are caused by a dog, it’s a good idea to be tested, since the symptoms may actually be caused by other environmental exposures.

Dog Allergy Management and Treatment

Avoidance is the best way to manage a dog allergy. If you have a dog and are allergic to dogs, consider removing the dog from the home.

If you have a dog but don’t want to find it a new home, or if your family wants a dog even though someone in the household is allergic, here are some strategies that may help keep symptoms at bay:

• Keep the dog out of your bedroom and restrict it to only a few rooms. Be advised that keeping the dog in only one room will not limit the allergens to that room.
• Don’t pet, hug or kiss the dog; if you do, wash your hands with soap and water.
• High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) cleaners run continuously in a bedroom or living room can reduce allergen levels over time.
• Regular use of a high-efficiency vacuum cleaner or a central vacuum can reduce allergen levels.
• Giving your dog a bath at least once a week can reduce airborne dog allergen.

Treatments for dog allergy vary, depending on the symptoms.

Your allergist can help determine what treatment would be best to treat your dog allergy. Nasal symptoms are often treated with steroid nasal sprays, oral antihistamines or other oral medications. Eye symptoms are often treated with antihistamine eyedrops. Respiratory or asthma symptoms can be treated with inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators to either prevent or relieve respiratory symptoms.

Allergy shots (immunotherapy) are an effective treatment of allergies by building tolerance over time through gradually injecting increasing doses of an allergen.

Is there an allergy-free dog?

While poodles, Portuguese water dogs and a number of other breeds (including several types of terriers) have a reputation for being hypoallergenic, a truly allergy-free breed does not exist. A 2011 study compared dust samples from homes with dog breeds reported to be hypoallergenic and those of homes with other dogs. The levels of dog allergen in homes with “hypoallergenic” dogs did not differ from the levels in homes with other breeds.

This page was reviewed for accuracy 4/23/2018.

how they look on the human body with a photo and how to treat them

Bedbugs are quite tenacious and dangerous insects. Scientists have long proven that these blood-sucking parasites can be carriers of various infections, including brucellosis, tularemia, Chagas disease and even hepatitis ¹ . Also, approximately 80% of people have allergic reactions to bug bites ¹ .

During the bite, the bug secretes an enzyme that prevents blood clotting, but you may not even feel the bite itself. This is due to the physiology of the creature: otherwise the bug runs the risk of being “caught”.

There is a strong opinion that bed bugs, including bed bugs, can appear in conditions of uncleanliness, among numerous dirty and unwashed things, and this is partly true. One of the common reasons for the appearance of these harmful insects is migration from already infected apartments. Bedbugs (or their larvae) can come to your house on neighbors, on their clothes, books, household items and animal hair (for example, street). So, if you find a bed bug in your house, this does not necessarily mean that you do not care enough about the order in the house. 9Bed bugs we breed they are most often found on old clothes, in unsanitary conditions, furniture, mattresses, bed linen ² What bites look like usually in the form of a “path” of small red dots on the body Why bedbug bites can be dangerous reactions to bedbug bites can be nausea, muscle spasms, severe itching, redness and peeling of the skin, fear of sleep

What bedbug bites look like on the human body?

Almost immediately after a bug bite, blisters, redness and swelling appear on the skin, which are accompanied by itching, irritation, swelling. Most often, bites can be found on the legs, shoulders, back, neck – they look like dense red dots up to 1 mm in diameter, which form a “track” ³ .

Photo: shutterstock.com

If scratched, bites can turn into large bright red and sometimes bleeding spots ³ . Also, traces of blood may remain on a person’s bed linen and clothing, coinciding with bite sites.

Bed bug bites. Photo: commons.wikimedia.org, Oliver Arend

How to treat bedbug bites

According to disinfectologist Nikolai Dubinin , bedbug bites are dangerous and painful, and also cause severe itching. To get rid of discomfort, you can apply something cold to the bite site, for example, ice. A compress with a solution of soda (about half a teaspoon per glass of water) is also suitable, or treat the bite site with an antihistamine cream or ointment, a special balm after bites ³ .

What are the consequences of bed bug bites?

Transmission of pathogens by bedbug bites is possible in theory in foci of infectious diseases, but in practice this has not yet been proven. Bed bug bites can be life-threatening and cause severe allergic reactions. After the bite, papules form, painful blisters that appear either immediately after the bite, or after 10-40 minutes. The severity of edema may increase, accompanied by severe itching and hyperemia.

Popular questions and answers

Sanitary doctor, epidemiologist, disinfectologist, pest control expert Nikolai Dubinin answers the most popular questions about bedbug bites.

Who is most often bitten by bed bugs?

– Period of parasite activity – night time. Most often, bed bugs bite people in bed, and turning on the light will not help to avoid bites. When given a choice, bed bugs choose tender skin that is easier to bite through, such as women and children ² . However, this does not mean at all that bedbugs do not bite men. Bedbugs bite all people, regardless of gender and age.

Bed bugs also prefer drunk people. The fact is that under the influence of alcohol, the human body releases more sweat and hormones that attract attention and whet the appetite of insects.

How many times does a bug bite a night?

– Bed bug bites are often called “breakfast, lunch and dinner” because they bite exactly three times. But there is more. If there is only one bite, most likely it was not an adult that bit, but a larva, which needs a smaller amount of blood to saturate.

Who doesn’t get bitten by bed bugs?

– Bed bugs choose a host with thinner and smoother skin, however, they bite absolutely all warm-blooded.

How to treat bed bug bites?

– Treatment after bedbug bites is prescribed depending on the clinical condition of the patient. Local allergic reactions can be treated on an outpatient basis, with the appointment of local or general therapy. The bite site is cooled, topical glucocorticosteroid agents are used, including combined ones, which contain an antibiotic and an antifungal agent. Such drugs help reduce itching, increase swelling and prevent the spread of infection.

How to protect yourself from bedbug bites?

– If you are a victim of bed bugs in your home, the best option to get rid of them once and for all is to have the entire room professionally disinfected. You need to disinfect the house, even if you find only one insect, because they multiply quite quickly. In addition, essential oils will help scare away bedbugs (they can be applied to the body before going to bed), perfume lotions with a pronounced aroma.

To prevent your home from becoming attractive to small parasites, it is recommended to regularly check furniture, mattresses, things for the presence of insects, monitor the condition of pets (especially those who are most often on the street), carry out regular wet cleaning in the house, be sure to move furniture, because you may not know about the presence of bedbug nests.

In addition, bedbugs do not like high temperatures (over 60°C), so upholstered furniture can be steamed regularly.

Sources:

1. Roslavtseva SA Modern distribution of bed bugs in the world (literature review) // Hygiene and sanitation. 2020. №3. https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/sovremennoe-rasprostranenie-postelnyh-klopov-v-mire-obzor-literatury
2. Bed bugs. What to do if there are bed bugs in the apartment? Center for Hygiene and Epidemiology in the Republic of Bashkortostan. Article dated 12/24/2020.
   https://sesufa.ru/novosti/postelnye-klopy-chto-delat-esli-poyavilis-klopy-v-kvartire/?sphrase_id=19055
3. Bed bug bites. Zarechnaya S.N. Dobrolov, article dated 18.07. 2021.
   https://dobrolov.com/info/news/ukusy-postelnykh-klopov/

Bed bug bites and allergies: how to tell?

Contents

• 1 Bed bug bites
  • 1.1 When and where do they bite?
  • 1.2 Who and how do bed bugs bite?
• 2 Bug and other insect bites: differences
• 3 Allergies and bedbug bites: what’s the difference?
  • 3.1 How Bedbug Allergy Develops
  • 3.2 Why Bedbug Allergy Occurs
  • 3.3 Difference Between Bedbug Bite and Allergy
• 4 Treatment of Bedbug Allergy
  • 4.1 First aid
  • 4.2 Medical treatment
  • 4.3 Folk remedies
  • 4. 4 Prevention of allergy to bedbug bites
• 5 If bedbugs bite on vacation…
• 6 What is the danger?

Every year the number of people who face such an unpleasant problem as bedbug allergy is increasing. Doctors are sounding the alarm, because not everyone runs to the hospital when they see red spots on their bodies. However, bed bug bites can cause serious health problems. You need to know how parasites bite and distinguish the symptoms of an individual reaction to bedbug bites from manifestations of an allergy to other irritants.

Bedbug bites

You need to know how bloodsuckers bite. These parasites prefer human blood. They feed with the help of a proboscis, which is a bit like a mosquito. On the human body, the parasite finds a capillary and makes a puncture on the thinnest part of the epidermis. It is almost impossible to feel the puncture right away, since at this moment the bug injects a substance under the skin that acts as an anesthetic . .

When and where do they bite?

These parasites prefer to bite at night, from 3 to 6 hours. If there are too many individuals in the room, then their bites cannot be avoided even in the daytime. Often insects bite the legs, arms, back, stomach, neck and face, as the skin is quite thin in these places. You can also notice that traces of lesions appear mainly on open areas of the skin, since bloodsuckers cannot bite through tissue. Only in rare cases can the parasite get under clothing.

Who and how do bed bugs bite?

Mostly bed bugs bite several times. The lesion looks like a slight redness with a scarlet dot in the center. You can see that the spots form a path, and the distance between them can be up to two centimeters. Bites begin to itch and itch a lot.

There are many suggestions that bed bugs bite mainly women or people with the first and second blood groups. In fact, these are myths.

Parasites react equally to all people. But the fair sex notices bite marks faster and seek help from specialists. There is nothing unusual in the case of blood types. Since the first and second groups are the most common, therefore, there are more complaints about bites from people with just such blood.

Bug and other insect bites: differences

The table shows the main differences:

Insect	Where it bites	When it bites	Biting	What a bite looks like
Bed bugs	Unprotected areas of the body with thin skin (neck, arms, face, legs, abdomen, back)	Night >	Due to the anesthetic in the saliva, almost nothing is felt	Small redness with a scarlet dot in the center. There are several punctures (3-7). They form a “track”
Fleas	Legs, feet, ankles	At any time of the day	During the bite, unpleasant sensations occur, this place begins to itch	Slight redness with swelling
Lice	More likely to bite on hairy areas of the body, may bite on any part of the body	Anytime	Itching, irritation	Red swollen spots, in the center you can see a dried drop of blood. Around the places of greatest damage – cyanotic spots.
Mosquitoes	Any exposed areas of the body	At any time, usually in the summer, autumn months	The puncture starts to itch after a few minutes	Reddish blisters

Allergies and bedbug bites: what’s the difference?

Allergy caused by bed bugs is called chemipterosis. In order to determine the presence of an allergic reaction in time, you need to know how it manifests itself.

How bed bug allergy develops

A local reaction to an insect allergen means more itching, swelling, redness than in an unresponsive person. Sometimes such an allergy is accompanied by swelling of the entire limb. In some cases, a general allergic reaction may occur with the following symptoms:

• itchy urticaria;
• nasal congestion;
• dry cough;
• tearing;
• redness of the eyes;
• muscle spasms of the bronchi;
• angioedema;
• anaphylactic shock.

Bedbug allergy is most pronounced in young children, as their immune system is underdeveloped and weak. That is why there is a risk of severe reactions and consequences.

Quincke’s edema

Why there is an allergy to bedbugs

The main cause of allergy is insect saliva, which enters the body during a puncture. It disrupts blood clotting, and the anesthetic that it contains acts as an allergen. According to statistics, about 80% of the world’s population have an individual intolerance to this substance.

Excrement and chitin of parasites also act as an allergen. The slightest contact with them can lead to skin irritation.

Distinguishing a bug bite from an allergy

Distinguishing an allergic reaction from a bite is quite easy. Here are the main points by which this can be done:

1. Static. If parasite bites retain their color and shape for a long time, then the signs of ordinary allergies change.
2. Place of reaction. Traces of insect damage can only be seen on exposed areas of the skin, and they follow each other, forming a “path”. An allergic reaction spreads throughout the body and does not have clear edges and contours.
3. Skin condition of other family members. If you notice traces on your skin, but your spouse does not, then most likely you are faced with a common allergy. If you suspect bedbug bites, you should urgently seek help from services involved in the extermination of parasites.

Treatment of bedbug allergy

Treatment usually consists of removing the symptoms of the allergy with antihistamines. In especially severe cases, you have to resort to the help of doctors.

First Aid

If a person develops a local allergic reaction after a bedbug attack, apply a cold compress to the affected area. Then the bite site should be lubricated with an ointment that relieves itching and inflammation.

The bite site must not be scratched as this may lead to infection of the wound.

If a person develops anaphylactic shock due to bedbug bites, first of all, you need to call an ambulance, provide first aid. Actions must be clear and quick, as delay can lead to death.

1. Place the person on their back, turn their head to the side, and place their legs in such a way that they are higher than the head.
2. Give victim any antihistamine.
3. If cardiac arrest occurs or breathing stops, chest compressions, artificial respiration are required.

Drug treatment

Allergy symptoms are relieved by the following antiallergic drugs:

• cetirizine;
• tavegil;
• claretin;
• lorahexal;
• zyrtec;
• fenistil.

Medicines that can be taken by children should only be prescribed by a doctor.

If long-term treatment is needed, allergen-specific immunotherapy is used. For a certain time, a person is injected with an allergen in small doses, which leads to a dulling of allergy symptoms or to its complete disappearance.

Folk remedies

Proven home remedies are a great way to not only relieve itching, but also redness after a bite. There are several common recipes.

1. To relieve itching, crushed plantain or mint leaves wrapped in a bandage or gauze should be applied to the affected area.
2. One tablespoon of finely chopped garlic should be poured with a glass of water and infused for 4-5 hours. After moistening a cotton swab in the infusion and apply to the bite.
3. Cut an onion head and apply to the bite. This will help relieve the itching quickly.

Treatment of bites with folk remedies is longer than the use of drugs.

Prevention of allergy to bug bites

First of all, you should protect your home from insects as much as possible. If at least one individual has been seen, immediately contact the service that deals with pest control of premises. Only experts will help to completely destroy bedbugs , and therefore reduce the possibility of allergies to their bites.

In addition, it is necessary to:

• thoroughly and frequently wet cleaning;
• regularly ventilate the room;
• bedding must be washed at high temperatures and then ironed.

You have to be careful when buying furniture and appliances, especially used ones.

If bed bugs bite on vacation…

Bed bugs can often be found at recreation centers, sanatoriums, hostels. The easiest way to avoid parasites is to move to another hotel. If this cannot be done, it is worth trying to scare them away from the bed:

1. All bedding should be shaken and then ironed.
2. It is worth pouring boiling water into sofa cracks, and then vinegar. Do the same with skirting boards. The bed must be moved away from the walls.
3. The smell of tansy and wormwood will scare away parasites. Bundles of herbs should be hung on the bed.

When you get home, fold all your clothes, wash them at a high temperature, and then they need to be ironed.