Allergic Reactions to Stings from Hornets, Yellow Jackets, Wasps & Bees

Most people are not allergic to insect stings and should recognize the difference between an allergic reaction and a normal or large local reaction. This will prevent unnecessary worry and medical expense.

The severity of an insect sting reaction varies from person to person. A normal reaction will result in pain, swelling, and redness confined to the sting site. Simply disinfect the area and apply ice to reduce the swelling. A large local reaction will result in swelling that extends beyond the sting site. For example, a person stung on the forearm may have his/her arm swell to twice its normal size. Although alarming in appearance, this condition may persist for 2-3 days, and antihistamines and steroids are sometimes prescribed to lessen the discomfort.

The most serious reaction to an insect sting is an allergic one. This condition requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction or "anaphylaxis" may include one or more of the following:
• Hives, itching, and swelling in areas other than the sting site
• Tightness in the chest and difficulty breathing
• Hoarse voice or swelling of the tongue
• Dizziness or a sharp drop in blood pressure
• Unconsciousness or cardiac arrest 

You were one of the millions of Americans who are stung by insects every year. Everyone will react in some way to the venom of stinging insects, but less than 5% of the population is truly "allergic."