Insect Sting Allergies Insect Sting Allergies Insect Stings are such a common problem during the summer that almost everyone has been stung at some time in their lives. Most of these stings are mild annoyances with itching, pain, and swelling at the point of the sting. Each year at least 40 people die from a reaction to an insect bite.
Local reactions can range from a swollen arm or leg to a small welt.
These are natural responses to the enzymes and chemicals in the venom, and nothing to worry about. You can take an antihistamine to combat the itching, or try a folk remedy, such as milk, ammonia, Adolph's Meat Tenderizer or Clorox applied directly to the affected areas. Children and adults who have local reactions to stings aren't at risk for severe systemic reactions, nor is there any need to worry when a child gets hives. The next reaction can come quicker and be more severe. If you have had a systemic reaction to insect sting, you need a series of skin tests to determine if you are allergic, and if so, to what stinging insects.