Dr. Wojo. Healthy Living. Simplified.

Death from an insect sting is rare - about 40 people die each year, in the U.S., because of a severe allergic reaction to an insect sting. However, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, five percent of Americans can suffer from a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction to an insect sting. During the summer, I see several people each week in the emergency department because of an allergic reaction to an insect bite or sting.

Most of us have little or no reaction to an insect sting. The site of the sting may become red, itch or swell. In contrast, a severe reaction to a sting can affect one’s entire body - leading to hives, lightheadedness, even a drop in blood pressure.

The most serious reaction is anaphylaxis - a severe, whole-body allergic reaction. Typically, a person doesn’t have a severe reaction the first time he or she is stung. Instead, the body’s immune system becomes sensitized to the allergen injected by the sting. When stung again at a later date, the body’s reaction is swift, severe and involves the entire body - anaphylaxis. The tissues of the body release histamines and other substances that can constrict airways, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms can include hives, low blood pressure, swelling of the lips, throat, tongue or eyelids. A person may also suffer from hives, cramps, vomiting or diarrhea. Prolonged anaphylaxis can cause heart arrhythmia.

If you need relief from a normal reaction to a sting, Benadryl will help relieve symptoms. However, if someone is experiencing a severe reaction, call 911 and wait for the ambulance - the Paramedics have medicines that can immediately treat the reaction. If someone stirs up a nest of wasps, for example, and is stung hundreds of times, it’s best to seek emergency care because of the high levels of venom the person has been exposed to. Such high levels could lead to seizures, shock or death.

Blood and skin tests are available to see if one is sensitive to insect stings. For those who are at risk for severe allergic reactions, a doctor will provide an antihistamine and an epinephrine auto-injector (epi-pen) for emergencies. Vaccines are also available for those with a history of anaphylactic reactions to yellow jackets, wasps, honey bees and fire ants. While mosquito bites can - in rare instances - cause anaphylaxis, there is no treatment for mosquito allergies.

Best means of prevention? Stay away from insect nests, avoid wearing scented products and be aware that sweet drinks and food attract critters that sting.