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Can Immunotherapy Help Improve My Venom Allergies?

Going to the park when you know you have a venom allergy can be nerve-racking. Mild symptoms like pain, redness and hives are uncomfortable, but reactions, like anaphylaxis or secondary infections, can be life-threatening.

Fortunately, we have a long-term treatment approach called allergy immunotherapy that can significantly reduce the severity of your reaction to insect venom. Whether you have a mild or severe allergy, immunotherapy will put your mind at ease during your next trip to Briscoe Park.

Which Venomous Insects Cause Allergies?    

Hornet collecting pollen from an agapanthus flower.

Some insects that can trigger your venom allergy include:

  • Yellow jackets: black and yellow flying insects; nests look like they’re made out of paper-maché and are located underground, in walls, logs and other shaded areas
  • Paper wasps: reddish-brown to black wasps; nests made of papery material and found on building overhangs, shrubs, woodpiles and trees
  • Hornets: black and yellow or white striped with narrow waists; slightly smaller than yellow jackets; grey or brown nests made of papery material often found in tree branches, shrubs or tree hollows
  • Bees: black and yellow honeybees and bumblebees; build their honeycombs or colonies in hollow trees or building cavities; usually only aggressive when provoked
  • Fire ants: red, reddish-brown or black ants; slightly smaller than regular ants; live in mounds in the ground

If you notice insect nests around your house, call a professional to remove it. Avoid swatting at stinging insects and make sure you have all food and drinks covered when you’re outdoors.

How Immunotherapy Reduces Venom Allergy Sensitivity

During immunotherapy, we’ll create a solution containing a small dose of the allergen you’re sensitive to and introduce it to your immune system via a shot. We’ll slowly increase the amount of the allergen over six months until you reach the peak dose. After you reach the peak dose, you’ll receive the same dose for three to five years.[1]

You may experience some relief in the first six months, but more noticeable relief in the second and third years of treatment.

If you’re interested in reducing the severity of your venom allergies, contact ENT of Georgia North to schedule an immunotherapy consultation with one of our specialists.

[1] Mayo Clinic Staff. (2024, February 22). Allergy shots. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/allergy-shots/about/pac-20392876