Bee Sting & Insect Venom Allergy Treatment in the Bay Area
A severe allergic reaction to a bee, wasp, yellow jacket, or hornet sting can be life-threatening. If you or a family member has experienced a significant reaction to a stinging insect, evaluation by a board-certified allergist is essential. The experts at South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group provide comprehensive venom allergy testing and venom immunotherapy—the only treatment proven to prevent anaphylaxis from future stings.
Book AppointmentWhat Is Bee Sting Allergy?
Insect venom allergy is an IgE-mediated hypersensitivity to proteins found in the venom of stinging insects, including honey bees, yellow jackets, white-faced hornets, yellow hornets, and wasps. While most people experience a normal local reaction involving pain, swelling, and redness at the sting site, approximately 3% of adults develop a systemic allergic reaction. Without treatment, the risk of a future life-threatening anaphylactic reaction can be significant.
Common Signs & Symptoms
- Large local reactions with swelling extending beyond the sting site for more than 24 hours
- Generalized hives, flushing, or itching away from the sting site
- Throat tightening, difficulty swallowing, or swelling of the lips and tongue
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Dizziness, low blood pressure, or loss of consciousness
- A previous history of anaphylaxis requiring epinephrine treatment
How We Diagnose
Venom allergy diagnosis begins with a detailed history of prior sting reactions. Our allergists perform venom skin testing, including prick and intradermal testing with individual venom extracts, as well as serum-specific IgE blood testing to identify which insects are responsible for sensitization. Accurate identification of the culprit insect is critical for developing the most effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options at South Bay Allergy
Venom immunotherapy (venom allergy shots) is highly effective and can reduce the risk of future systemic reactions, including anaphylaxis, by 90% to 98% in appropriately treated patients. All patients with systemic venom allergy are prescribed injectable epinephrine and provided with a written anaphylaxis emergency action plan. Treatment typically includes a build-up phase with more frequent injections followed by long-term monthly maintenance therapy.
Schedule an Appointment
A bee sting does not have to put your life at risk. Schedule a venom allergy evaluation with South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group and take control of your safety and peace of mind.
Book Appointment