In brief
In an insect venom allergy the immune system reacts to components of bee or wasp venom, for example. The complaints range from pronounced swelling to serious circulatory reactions or shortness of breath. The diagnosis is made by means of an allergological history and on the basis of skin and blood tests. Specific immunotherapy can reduce the risk of severe reactions and is one of the most effective treatments in allergology.
Which insects trigger allergies?
In Central Europe bees and wasps are primarily involved, less often hornets or other stinging insects.
The precise attribution is important for treatment. Every insect venom contains different allergens. That is why, as part of the diagnostics at the Swiss Derma Clinic in Zurich, we examine which venom you actually react to.
Normal reaction or allergy?
After a sting, pain, itching, redness and limited swelling are normal. Sometimes larger local swelling also occurs without a true allergy being present.
We speak of an allergic reaction when complaints are unusually severe or occur beyond the site of the sting, for example:
- hives or a rash over the whole body
- swelling of the lips, eyelids or tongue
- breathing difficulties
- shortness of breath
- dizziness or circulatory problems
- nausea or vomiting
- impaired consciousness
An allergological assessment always makes sense if you are unsure whether an insect venom allergy could be involved.
Why precise diagnostics are important
Many people have experienced severe swelling after a sting at some point, and it is not always an insect venom allergy.
At the Swiss Derma Clinic in Zurich we take a close look at the sting and the skin reaction and, if necessary, carry out skin tests and blood tests for specific IgE antibodies. The results are then assessed in the context of your individual complaints.
Specific immunotherapy as causal treatment
Specific immunotherapy is regarded as the most effective treatment for a confirmed insect venom allergy. The immune system is gradually accustomed to the insect venom concerned. The aim is to significantly weaken or completely prevent the allergic reaction to future stings. For bee and wasp venom allergies the therapy achieves high success rates and offers long-term safety in everyday life.
Emergency kit and what to do after a sting
Depending on your risk and on the severity and symptoms of the insect venom allergy, we can prescribe you a personal emergency kit. This can contain various medications.
Just as important is knowing how to act in an emergency. Symptoms should be recognised early and the medication taken in good time. We discuss these points with you in detail during your consultation at the Swiss Derma Clinic in Zurich.
Who should be examined for an insect venom allergy?
We recommend specialist diagnostics in case of:
- reactions beyond the site of the sting
- breathing difficulties after a sting
- circulatory problems or dizziness
- repeated severe reactions
- uncertainty after an earlier allergic reaction
Your specialists in Zurich
At the Swiss Derma Clinic you are advised and treated by experienced specialists in dermatology and allergology. Alongside the diagnosis, the individual risk assessment is central. This makes it possible to judge whether an emergency kit, specific immunotherapy or further measures are required.
