Have you recently discovered that you're allergic to bees or wasps? Are you now wondering whether or not you have another stinging insect allergy? It's no fun to discover that you're allergic to anything, but these tips can help you to avoid potential issues:
Ask your doctor about an EpiPen: If you've been stung before, you may have had only a very mild reaction as a result. However, there is no way for your doctor to determine whether you'll have the same reaction or a much more severe one in the future. A stinging insect allergy that previously resulted in moderate swelling the last time may turn into a severe reaction that results in anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is an extreme reaction where you may have difficulty breathing, dizziness, or other issues that are well away from the site of the insect sting. Without treatment, an anaphylactic reaction can cause a person to go into shock and may eventually result in death. An EpiPen can help prevent or partially reverse anaphylaxis, giving you a little more time to get to the hospital.
Ask about immunotherapy: For many types of stinging insect allergies, you may be able to get immunotherapy from your allergist. With immunotherapy, small and tightly regulated amounts of the allergen in question are injected into your body. With successful immunotherapy, your body will eventually begin to recognize that the insect venom is not a threat. While this treatment isn't for everyone, it's often successful for those who are able to take it.
Avoid heavy perfumes: The best way to deal with a current stinging insect allergy is to avoid being stung in the first place. Bees and wasps can be attracted to perfume, especially perfume with a floral scent. If you don't feel right without some perfume, use as little of it as possible. Wearing a musky-scented perfume, instead of a floral or fruit scent, may also help.
Wear light colors: Another way to avoid being stung is to avoid wearing bright and colorful clothes. Bright colors can confuse a bee or wasp into thinking that they are flying towards a flower. If you wear clothes that are very light or very dark, there is a much smaller chance of your shirt being mistaken for a flower by an angry wasp.
Dealing with a stinging insect allergy can be scary. Fortunately, there are many ways to manage your condition so that you'll still be able to get out and enjoy life. For more information, talk to a specialist like Oak Brook Allergists.
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