Stinging insects that can cause allergies belong to the class of insects known as Hymenoptera. People with asthma need to be cautious about such allergies.
Photo credit: Forest & Kim Starr, U.S. Geological Survey, Bugwood.org
Fire ants strike without warning and cause anaphylaxis in about 5% of the population
For most people who are stung by a stinging insect, there may be some short-term discomfort or a mild allergic reaction but no serious or long-lasting side effects. A small percentage (5%) of people, however, are extremely allergic to stinging insects. These people may have more severe symptoms that combine into a condition known as anaphylaxis, or allergic shock.
Anaphylaxis can occur the first time you are stung by an insect, or it may take one or more exposures. Once it happens, though, you can expect a repeat occurrence with each sting thereafter. It's also important for people with asthma to know that studies show they may be at a higher risk for having a life-threatening anaphylaxis episode.
Fire ants (as pictured above) are one of the stinging insects you should avoid. Others include:
- Honeybees
- Paper wasps
- Hornets
- Yellow jackets
In summary, it makes sense for both people with allergies and people with asthma to know about stinging insects and the allergic reactions they can produce, so you can avoid stinging insects.