Allergies to insect bites

The sting of a bee, wasp or hornet can provoke an allergic reaction, in some cases even severe.

90% of Italians in their lifetime are stung by an insect of the hymenoptera family, which includes bees, wasps and hornets. Of these, 8% can develop a severe allergic reaction, often without being aware of the problems it can cause.

In fact, many still do not know, and therefore underestimate, the disorders that stings can cause in allergy sufferers. On the other hand, it is important to go immediately to the emergency room if shortly after the puncture by a hymenoptera you begin to feel difficulty breathing or a sense of general malaise, if spots appear on the body or even if gastrointestinal disorders occur. And it is better to call an ambulance in case of a drop in pressure or even fainting, signs of a high risk of anaphylactic shock.

How to keep them away

Everyone, but especially those who already know they are allergic to the bite of hymenoptera, should follow some basic rules. In summer it is good to avoid creams and perfumes with fruity or very sweet aroma, because in contact with the sweat of the skin it creates a mix particularly pleasing to insects.

Also no to garments with bright colors that attract hymenoptera. Better instead the neutral colors, ie white and beige, and green. In case of picnics, the rule is also to wear long trousers, shirts or long-sleeved sweaters, hats and closed shoes.

Pay attention to food, since wasps and hornets are attracted by fruit, sweets, ice cream, sandwiches and soft drinks. For this reason, it is also advisable to avoid leaving cans and food containers open. Also, in case of garbage cans on terraces and balconies, check that they are tightly closed and empty them often.

Emergency care

Despite all the hymenoptera struck? If the victim is allergic it is good to go to the emergency room; Otherwise the best therapy is with ice, to be applied on the puncture area which, thanks to the cold, will slowly deflate and the pain, which is usually localized but quite intense, will decrease.

In addition, if a bee has sting, it is good to arm yourself with a magnifying glass and carefully check the area. If you notice a dot of dark color, it means that the sting is left in the skin, which must be removed.

In case of allergy

If there is a reaction to the hymenoptera sting, it is appropriate to contact the allergist for a certain diagnosis. The specialist, if he deems it necessary, will advise the patient to always carry an emergency kit consisting of an antihistamine drug, a cortisone and self-injectable adrenaline.

But be careful, it is important that the patient himself, or the parents in the case of a child, are informed about how to use these drugs and in particular adrenaline.

Especially in severe allergic forms, the allergist will also evaluate the possibility of resorting to specific allergen immunotherapy: it is a sort of vaccine that must be practiced for 3-5 years and that is able to protect the allergic subject with an effectiveness of over 90%.