What Insects Cause Allergic Reactions?
Many people worry about spring fever and pollen allergens during spring, but insect allergies are also a concern now that bugs are active again. In this post we’re discussing how to know if you have insect allergies, which insects people are most allergic to and how to protect yourself.
The Most Allergic Insects
People may not like most insects, but only a few of them actually pose a threat to people with allergies. Bugs that sting and bite are bothersome, but the insects below can cause serious allergic reactions.
- Bees
- Wasps
- Mosquitoes
- Bed Bugs
- Fire Ants
- Cockroaches
- Yellow Jackets
- Hornets
Bugs in the Hymenoptera family (wasps, bees, ants) pose the most serious threat. Their stings can cause anaphylaxis, which is a systematic allergic reaction throughout the entire body.
How to Know If You Have an Insect Allergy
According to the National Institutes of Health only 3% of adults and 0.8% of children experience life-threatening reactions to insect bites and stings. However, some people are more susceptible than others, including people with:
- Asthma
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Serious reactions to insect bites
There are two ways of figuring out if you have an insect allergy. The first is to get bit by the insect and suffer an allergic reaction. That, of course, is not an ideal way to find out if you have an allergy.
The other way to know if you have an insect allergy is to get tested. An allergist can do a venom skin test, which is an extremely sensitive test that is commonly used to detect a wide array of allergens. A RAST test can also be done. This is a blood test that isn’t as sensitive as the venom skin test, but is better suited for people with sensitive skin.
Protecting Yourself From Pests
Regular pest control treatments are the best way to keep bugs away from your property. However, there are additional steps that you can take to keep yourself protected during spring.
- Wear long sleeves, gloves, pants, socks and closed-toe shoes when working outside.
- Use an insect repellant.
- Learn where certain insects like wasps and bees make their nests so you can avoid those areas.
- Keep food and drinks covered when eating outside.
- Keep garbage cans covered so they don’t attract stinging insects.
- Refrain from using perfume when outdoors because it can attract stinging insects.
If you do have allergies to insects it’s important that you protect yourself during the spring. Talk to your doctor about immunotherapy and other options for preventing adverse reactions in case you do get bit or stung. You may also want to keep an emergency epinephrine sting kit at home. These have an epinephrine shot in them and require a prescription.
If you live in the Pelham, AL area feel free to give us a call to discuss your specific needs and to learn how Vulcan Termite & Pest Control, Inc. can help keep pests off your property.
Original source: https://www.vulcantermite.com/seasonalpests/insects-cause-allergic-reactions/