Generally, allergy shots are safe, with minimal side effects. There are no long-term complications associated with this form of therapy, but there is a small risk of allergic reactions immediately following the injection. These allergic reactions can be severe.
Typically, allergy shots may cause slight swelling or redness at the injection site. These reactions can occur immediately after...
For someone with a food allergy, eating or swallowing even a tiny amount of a particular food can cause symptoms such as skin rash, nausea, vomiting, cramping, and diarrhea.
Because the body is reacting to something that is otherwise harmless, this type of allergic reaction is often called a hypersensitivity reaction. Rarely, a severe allergic reaction can cause a life-threatening set of...
Hay fever does not always require medical treatment. Avoid known or suspected allergens. Hay fever symptoms lend themselves to home treatment.
Gargle with warm salt water, 1-2 tablespoons of table salt in 8 ounces of warm water, to soothe a mildly sore throat. Take nonprescription antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to relieve symptoms of sneezing, runny nose, and itchy throat...
One or more prior severe reactions to an insect sting place you at an increased risk of severe reactions with each sting.
It is important to let the health care provider know that you have been stung and whether you have had reactions in the past. Be prepared to tell the health care provider all of the medications you have taken for the sting, both prescription and over-the-counter. Don't...
The top priority for the medical team is ensuring that your breathing and blood pressure are protected. If you are having difficulty breathing, you may be given oxygen via a tube in your nose or by face mask.
In cases of severe respiratory distress, you may be put on a mechanical ventilator. This is temporary until the effects of the reaction abate. If your blood pressure is too low, an IV...
Most insect stings cause some pain and swelling in the area of the sting, called a local reaction. People who are allergic to bee stings or who have been stung many times may react more dramatically.
A severe local reaction may lead to pain and swelling that increase over the next few hours and becoming very uncomfortable. This does not constitute an anaphylactic reaction. The reaction must...
Take precautions to avoid insect stings in the future. Avoid nests or hives of stinging insects. Do not wear bright clothing or perfumes that might attract bees and wasps.
Remain calm and quiet around flying insects. Move slowly. Take special care when around food or drinks outdoors, as at cookouts or picnics. Stinging insects are attracted to foods, especially sweet foods such as soft...
Short-acting type H1 antihistamines these medications, including diphenhydramine (Benadryl), are the primary treatment of mild cases of hives and angioedema. These are available without a prescription and are inexpensive. However, they must be taken every 6-12 hours and cause sleepiness, which can interfere with normal activity.
Long-acting H1 antihistamines these may also be used for mild...
Take all prescribed medicines as directed except for those drugs you are instructed to take only as needed. This will reduce the possibility of the hives or swelling coming back.
Contact your health care provider or return to the hospital if you have any of the following, rash or swelling returns or gets worse, difficulty with your medicines, new symptoms, sores or swelling of the mouth,...
Several insects belonging to the class Hymenoptera are capable of injecting venom into humans and animals. These insects include honeybees, bumble bees, hornets, wasps, yellow jackets, and fire ants.
All of these insects are currently found in the United States as well as in most other land areas of the globe. Their venom, which they use to kill or paralyze other insects, is composed of...
