Insect stings and bites are an itchy and mildly painful nuisance for most people, but they are more serious for those with allergies to insect saliva or venom. Venom released in the stings of bees, yellow jackets, hornets, wasps and fire ants can trigger a rare, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.

Insect sting allergies are rare, resulting in anaphylaxis in only 0.5 to 5 percent of the United States population, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). Most individuals with stinging-insect allergies experience far less serious symptoms, such as nausea or swelling. However, those who have an allergic reaction to an insect sting or bite are urged to contact a healthcare provider, regardless of its severity. Individuals who react to an insect sting or bite at least once may be at greater risk for experiencing similar or worse symptoms with each successive attack.

Treatments for insect allergies include allergy shots known as venom immunotherapy. This treatment is highly effective at dramatically reducing the chance of a life-threatening reaction. Physicians may prescribe epinephrine, a medication that patients can use to treat themselves during an emergency. Finally, individuals can greatly reduce the odds of being stung by following some basic precautionary guidelines.