The insect allergy It is a very common picture in children's age. Its manifestations are very varied and depend on the mechanism that produces the reaction and its scope.
Most often a localized reaction occurs in the area of the sting. However on other occasions the reaction can be seen throughout the body, so that pictures that can be much more serious are generated.
Causes
Insect allergy is a frequent allergy In babies, it is really generated by certain substances that come into contact with the child. This contact can be produced by two very different mechanisms:
In most cases, the insect inoculates a substance in the child's body through a bite or sting. This substance is what triggers the allergy episode, which can be localized or generalized.
In other cases, what happens is that the child inhales substances that come from the insect, so that the reaction that occurs is an allergic rhinitis or even an asthma picture.
Symptoms of insect allergy
Most often, the substance produces a localized reaction in the area of the bite, which can be from mild (a simple hubon) to much more serious, such as cellulite (in which the deeper layers of the skin are inflamed) . This is usual when the insect does bite (like spiders).
In cases where the insect inoculates a poison in the child's organismThis may present a localized reaction at the site of the bite (most frequently) or a generalized reaction. The latter is much less frequent, but the problem is that it can be much more serious, since they can trigger an anaphylactic reaction, which is a serious allergic reaction of the organism.
If what happens is that the child inhales substances from the insect against which he is allergic, the airways become inflamed. This is what happens in children who have asthma caused by allergy to dust mites.
Treatment of sting allergies or insect bites
In case of a sting it should remember to always remove the insect, trying not to compress it by doing so that it does not expel more poison. Oil or alcohol can be used to kill it, but it is never recommended to burn it because of the risk of damaging the child's skin.
Local reactions They are usually controlled with the use of topical anti-inflammatory and antihistamines. Sometimes, if they are at risk of infection, it may be necessary to add an antibiotic in the form of a cream. In cases of more severe injuries, the child may have to take the medication by mouth. Any of these medications should always be prescribed by the Pediatrician.
In the event that it is believed that the child is presenting a generalized reaction (swelling of the face, lips, neck, or difficulty breathing) you should always go to an emergency department very quickly.
Some cases of risk can be treated with what is called immunotherapy, so that the child becomes immune against the venom of the insect. This is a complex treatment that can only be applied in certain cases. It should always be indicated by the Pediatrician or the allergist.
In summary…
Insect allergies are very common in childhood. Most are caused by bites or bites and involve mild symptoms, although in a few cases a serious reaction can be generated. In other cases the allergy mechanism is mediated by inhalation of substances, which can lead to asthma symptoms.
To prevent bites It is best for children to wear clothes that cover their arms and legs at risk sites, such as the countryside. They should avoid flashy colors on clothing and wear colonies that can attract insects by smell.
