Ask a doctor on the topic of Allergology

Insect venom allergy

August 1, 2011 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Dr. Matthias Wahn

Dear Sir or Madam,

I have a question regarding wasp venom allergy.
First of all: I suffer from hay fever and allergic asthma, which has been well controlled in recent years by taking Cetirizine in the spring.
Last autumn, I was stung by a wasp and my hand swelled very significantly (I took Cetirizine afterwards). Apart from the large swelling, I had no other problems and it was not my first wasp sting.
When I was at my allergist for other reasons, I mentioned the sting and the doctor then took a blood sample. The result was an IgE value of RAST 4.
Subsequently, I was referred to the hospital to undergo a rapid allergy test. However, the doctors there sent me home again as I did not have a systemic reaction.
Perhaps you can imagine how uncertain I am now. Although I have an emergency kit, I still feel very limited in my leisure activities and I am constantly on edge outdoors looking out for wasps. Is it advisable to continue taking Cetirizine prophylactically in the summer? Would this suppress a severe reaction from the outset? Unfortunately, my allergist who recommended the test did not really provide any further assistance. He does not carry out the test in his practice.
Thank you in advance for your effort.

Dr. Matthias Wahn

Dear patient,
the decision of the hospital was correct based on current knowledge. Whether you should continue taking Cetirizine is a risk-benefit assessment. Allergic reactions can be suppressed by it (another antihistamine is usually also included in your emergency kit), however, newer antihistamines like Citirizine can also cause drowsiness and therefore limit your ability to drive.
Sincerely
Your dermatologist