West Midlands
Insect Bite & Sting Allergy Tests
Insect bite or sting allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to proteins found in the saliva of certain insects. These reactions can range from mild localised symptoms to life-threatening emergencies. Common insects that trigger allergic reactions include bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, ants, mosquitoes, and ticks.
Cost
- Focused GP appointment (15min) £75
- Standard GP appointment (30min) £120
What causes insect bite or sting allergy?
- Saliva proteins: When an insect bites or stings, it injects its saliva into the skin. In some people, proteins in these substances can trigger an allergic response.
- Previous sensitisation: Repeated exposure to insect bites or stings can lead to the development of an allergy over time.
- Family historyy: A genetic predisposition may increase the likelihood of developing insect bite allergies.
Symptoms of insect bite/sting allergy
The severity of an allergic reaction can vary. Some individuals may experience only mild, localised symptoms, while others may have more serious, widespread reactions:
Localised skin reaction: Most bites or stings cause redness, swelling, pain, and itching at the site. These symptoms usually resolve within a few hours or days
Some individuals may experience more severe reactions, which may include:
- Hives or welts that spread beyond the bite or sting site.
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (requires IMMEDIATE medical attention).
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or tightness in the chest (EMERGENCY).
- Rapid heartbeat, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting (EMERGENCY).
- Anaphylaxis: This is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires urgent treatment. Symptoms include a sudden drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and rapid onset of severe illness. Anaphylaxis needs IMMEDIATE treatment with adrenaline and EMERGENCY medical care.
Insect bite/sting allergy testing
If you suspect an allergy to insect bites or stings, testing can confirm the cause. Here are several diagnostic methods:
Skin prick test (SPT): A small amount of insect saliva extract is placed on the skin and pricked to check for a reaction. If you’re allergic, a raised hive will form within 15-20 minutes.
Intradermal test: In this test, a small amount of insect saliva is injected into the skin. This test is more sensitive than a skin prick test but carries a higher risk of false positives.
Blood tests: Blood tests, such as the specific IgE test, measure antibodies produced by your immune system in response to insect saliva, helping to identify allergies.
What We Test For – Insect Venom Allergy (IgE Blood Test)
We offer specific IgE blood tests to assess for allergy to common stinging insect venoms:
(£22) Honey Bee Venom (IgE) – Apis mellifera
(£22) White-Faced Hornet Venom (IgE) – Dolichovespula maculata
(£22) Yellow Hornet Venom (IgE) – Dolichovespula arenaria
(£22) Yellow Jacket Venom (IgE) – Vespula species
These tests help identify venom-specific sensitisation and are especially important for patients with:
Large local reactions
Systemic allergic reactions
Anaphylaxis following stings
How to manage insect bite/sting allergy
- Avoidance: Take steps to reduce exposure, such as wearing long-sleeved clothing, using insect repellents, and avoiding areas where insects are prevalent.
- Adrenaline Auto-Injector (EpiPen): Individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions should always carry an adrenaline auto-injector to treat anaphylaxis in an emergency.
- Desensitisation (Allergy Shots): For those with severe reactions, allergen immunotherapy (commonly known as allergy shots) may be recommended. This treatment gradually exposes the body to small amounts of the allergen to build tolerance over time.
When to seek medical help!
If you suspect an allergy to insect bites or stings, or if you have experienced severe symptoms following an insect sting, seek medical advice. Anaphylaxis requires immediate treatment with adrenaline and emergency medical care. At OneMedicine, we provide comprehensive testing and personalised treatment plans to help you manage your insect bite or sting allergy effectively!
Do you have other questions?
Concerned about an insect bite or sting allergy? Book a consultation at OneMedicine today. Our experienced team will assess your symptoms, provide testing, and offer personalised management strategies to keep you safe.
