An insect allergy is an allergic reaction to a sting or bite from an insect that has an irritant or toxin in its saliva or venom. In most cases a person bitten or stung by an insect will experience a swelling, redness and mild pain, but in some people a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction may be experienced.
As is quite evident, it is not possible to control when a person is stung by an insect, so if a person has a serious insect allergy it is important that treatment and preventative measures are followed.
As insect allergies cannot be predicted, the best course of treatment is prevention.
- Stay away from areas known to have large numbers of insects.
- Remove nests around the home by contacting trained experts.
- Check the house and garden regularly for the signs of insects and their nests.
- Keep away from rubbish bins and containers.
- Shake out clothes and towels etc. which have been left on the ground or near possible insect sites.
- Be careful when drinking from drink containers which may have been left outside, as an insect could be inside.
- Check for insects before getting into a car or other vehicle, and drive with the windows closed.
- Avoid flower beds, fields etc. especially when in bloom.
- Wear long sleeved clothing, trousers instead of shorts etc.
- Choose white or light colored clothes, as dark clothed can attract insects.
- Avoid perfumes, cosmetics or sprays which could attract insects.
- Have a ready supply of insect repellent sprays and insecticides.
- If you come into contact with an insect, stay calm and brush the insect away or have someone do it for you.
For advice on dealing with allergies, allergens and allergic disorders - skin, drug, insect and asthma symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, visit the Allergic Advice website.
For advice on insect allergies and dealing with insect bites visit the Insect Allergies web page. |
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