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An allergic reaction to an insect bite can develop at any age, even if prior stings had no adverse reaction. Hymenoptera is the name for a severe reaction to insect venom, affecting about three percent of adults and one percent of children. The insects most commonly causing this condition are honey bees, hornets, yellow jackets, fire ants, and wasps. While an unpleasant sensation, venom stings most often create a mild reaction such as redness, pain, or swelling that may last up to a few days. Some patients, however, experience a systemic allergy to insect venom, which can be a life-threatening … Continue Reading

Allergic reactions to foods may present in various ways, including hives, rashes, intestinal discomfort, shortness of breath, anaphylaxis, or allergic rhinitis. The allergy occurs through two interactions of the immune system. First, immunoglobulin E, (IgE) a form of protein that is referred to as an antibody circulates in the blood. For some individuals, this antibody will form in reaction to certain foods. This condition is generally inherited from parents, who may have experienced any form of allergy, including hay fever, asthma, or hives. When an individual eats an allergen food, the body forms excess amounts of the antibody, IgE, which … Continue Reading

Many people think of allergies as the seasonal condition referred to as hay fever, which causes runny noses, red-rimmed and itchy eyes, and sneezing. Some allergies, however, can cause much more severe reactions. Anaphylaxis is a severe and sudden allergic reaction, which needs to be treated immediately. Luckily, most allergy sufferers will never experience anaphylaxis, but it is important to understand the symptoms and triggers.Shortly after exposure to an allergy trigger, a series of reactions occur in the body, causing blood vessels to expand temporarily. This, in turn, lowers blood pressure and may cause fainting. Hives or swelling may appear, … Continue Reading