Allergy Specialist

Dr. Boyan Hadjiev, one of New York’s leading allergy specialists, frequently treats people who discover that they may suffer a fatal reaction from an insect sting allergy. There are five insects that can cause a severe allergic reaction in some people, simply by injecting venom into the skin. These insects are hornets, wasps, honeybees, yellow jackets, and fire ants. Many people may have pain and even swelling from an insect sting, but some people have reactions that are potentially life-threatening. In fact, 3 percent of adults in America have severe allergic reactions to insect stings, and these potentially fatal reactions also occur in 0.4 to 0.8 percent of children in the United States.

Insect Sting Allergic Reaction

If you have an allergic reaction to an insect sting, you may experience significant pain and redness at the site of the sting, and sometimes swelling can occur in areas that extend beyond the immediate site of envenomation. Flushing or hives, in reaction to a sting, suggest an allergy, and if you have not previously had a severe allergic reaction, this may be a sign that you could potentially develop one. Itching is another sign of an allergy to venom from an insect. It’s important to recognize insect allergies, because they can lead to an uncommon reaction called anaphylaxis, which can cause the body to go into shock and can make it difficult to breath. Because anaphylaxis can easily result in death, if you have had any signs of an allergic reaction to an insect sting, you should consult Dr. Boyan Hadjiev, New York’s top allergy doctor, to determine if you should take measures to protect yourself.

Insect Sting Allergy

There are a variety of things that you can do, if you are diagnosed with an insect allergy. Dr. Boyan Hadjiev can recommend allergy shots, known as immunotherapy, to desensitize your immune system to the toxic venom of these insects. In addition to avoiding insects, people with severe allergies to insect stings should carry a special drug, called epinephrine, to inject immediately if they begin to experience signs of anaphylaxis after an insect sting. Epinephrine injections can only be prescribed by a doctor, and an allergy specialist like Dr. Boyan Hadjiev should evaluate you in case of an insect sting allergy to determine if you are a candidate for epinephrine emergency treatment.

If you have had a severe allergic reaction to an insect sting, you may have another reaction that can be even worse if you experience another sting. You should always carry an epinephrine auto-injector, and it is essential for people who think they have an  allergy to insect venom to see an allergist for recommendations.

Dr. Boyan Hadjiev, one of New York’s leading allergy doctors, will be able to test you, using a skin-prick test, to determine if you have an allergy.  There are simple ways to avoid insect stings, but it’s not always possible. Be prepared to protect yourself with an epinephrine auto-injector. Call our office today to determine if you are at risk for a severe and life-threatening reaction to an insect sting.