What's the Buzz on Sting Allergies?

Claire Bates, Daily Mail (UK), 11/29/05

We all worry about getting stung by bees and wasps, but for those who are allergic, it is a far more serious concern. Here we look at the symptoms and treatments of the allergy as well as useful avoidance strategies:

What are the causes of the allergy?

An insect allergy is caused by the body reacting against the insect's venom. A first sting sometimes primes the immune system in susceptible people, so that subsequent stings will cause an allergic reaction. Gardeners are more likely to become allergic. The majority of sting sufferers are allergic to either wasps or bees but not both.