What should you know about insect anaphylaxis?

Insect anaphylaxis is a sudden, severe allergic reaction that needs immediate emergency treatment. It can begin after a sting or bite and may affect breathing, circulation, skin, or the digestive system.

Warning signs may include swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, wheezing, trouble breathing, a hoarse voice, widespread hives, dizziness, faintness, vomiting, or a feeling that something is seriously wrong. A person can have anaphylaxis even without a skin rash. A previous mild reaction does not predict the severity of a later one.

Call emergency services as soon as anaphylaxis is suspected. If the person has a prescribed adrenaline auto-injector, help them use it according to their instructions, usually in the outer thigh. Have them lie down with their legs raised unless breathing is easier sitting up; do not let them stand or walk. A second device may be needed if symptoms continue and emergency help has not arrived, following the device instructions. Do not offer food or drink.

Treat breathing difficulty, throat swelling, faintness, or rapidly spreading symptoms as an emergency, even if the person starts to feel better. Symptoms can return after initial improvement, so hospital assessment is needed. After recovery, arrange an allergy review to discuss trigger avoidance, an emergency plan, and whether allergy testing is appropriate.

Ask which symptoms should prompt an auto-injector, how family members can use it, whether you need more than one device, and how to record the insect and circumstances involved. Ask when allergy testing may help identify the trigger and whether referral to an allergy specialist is suitable.