The most common type of insect allergen that is a factor in triggering asthma symptoms is the cockroach. Most people don't like to think about cockroaches, but a protein in their droppings is one of the most common indoor asthma triggers for people who live in densely-populated, urban environments.
Cockroaches have existed for hundreds of millions of years. They thrive in warm, moist environments, and they love moving into the homes and offices of humans.
Cockroach Facts
Cockroaches get into a house through wall cracks, windows, gaps in floors or wood trim, cellars, drains, and doors that leads outdoors. They need water in order to live and they will seek wet areas in the home such as leaky pipes and faucets.
Cockroaches also tend to be found where there are open garbage containers or food left out in the open. The cleaner a home, the less welcome roaches feel.
Other Insect Allergens
Other insect droppings may also trigger asthma symptoms in certain people. An emerging problem appears to be Asian Ladybugs. These insects were purposely introduced in the United States to fight aphids, but have since become a problem on the East Coast and in the South, especially during cold weather when they seek warm indoor spaces.
There is some evidence that Asian Ladybugs may cause the same kinds of asthma problems as cockroaches.
Stinging Insect Allergens
Stinging insects include the following:- Fire ants
- Honeybees
- Hornets
- Paper wasps
- Yellow jackets
For most people who are stung by a stinging insect, there may be some short-term discomfort, but no serious side effects. Other people may have a mild allergic reaction and notice some symptoms such as sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, and watery red eyes.
However, other people are extremely allergic to stinging insects. These people may have more severe symptoms that combine into a condition known as anaphylaxis, or allergic shock.
Unfortunately, people who have asthma are much more likely to go into allergic shock when stung by stinging insects. If the following symptoms develop after a sting, seek emergency treatment immediately:
- difficulty breathing
- swelling of the throat and tongue, which is sometimes associated with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- blood pressure may drop, followed by
- fainting or loss of consciousness
- shock
If you are allergic to stinging insects and also have asthma, it's a good idea to carry injectable epinephrine with you at all times.
Source:
AAAAI, "Tips to remember: indoor allergens." American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. 01 January 2006. AAAAI. 29 Oct 2007 http://www.aaaai.org/patients/publicedmat/tips/indoorallergens.stm
AAAAI, "Tips to remember: stinging insect allergy." American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. 01 January 2006. AAAAI. 30 Oct 2007 http://www.aaaai.org/patients/publicedmat/tips/stinginginsect.stm
Nakazawa T, Satinover SM, Naccara L, et al. Asian Ladybugs(Harmonia axyridis): A New Seasonal Indoor Allergen. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2007; 119: 421-7.
