Sep 11 (HealthCentersOnline) - As the summer ends and stinging insect season begins, experts are advising people to seek emergency medical treatment for allergic reactions due to insect stings.

Insect bites and stings are an itchy and mildly painful nuisance for most people, but they are more serious for those with allergies to insect saliva or venom. Most individuals with stinging insect allergies experience mild to moderate symptoms (e.g., nausea, swelling) after being stung by an insect. However, for about 5 percent of Americans, the venom released in the stings of bees, yellow jackets, hornets, wasps and fire ants can trigger a rare, allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can affect the skin, lungs, nose, throat, gastrointestinal tract and heart. Without prompt emergency treatment, anaphylaxis may interfere with a person's ability to breathe, or lead to shock.

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires an immediate injection of epinephrine, a drug that reverses symptoms. Without immediate treatment anaphylaxis can be fatal. At least 40 deaths occur annually from reactions to stinging insects, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI).

In an effort to lower the number of deaths due to insect stings, the AAAAI is urging people to know the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis and to seek immediate treatment for the condition when it occurs.

"The increase of stinging insects in the fall and the severity of allergic reactions to insect venom makes it extremely important for patients to be prepared to act quickly if they are stung," said Dr. Clifford M. Tepper, chair of the AAAAI Insect Allergy Committee, in a press release. "Patients and their family and friends should also be aware of the first signs of an allergic reaction and have emergency epinephrine available at all times. Epinephrine should be used at the first sign of a systemic reaction of any kind, and emergency help should be sought promptly."

Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

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• Itching and hives all over the body
• Swelling in the throat or tongue
• Difficulty breathing
• Dizziness
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Diarrhea

In severe cases, anaphylaxis can cause a rapid fall in blood pressure that triggers shock and loss of consciousness.

The AAAAI is advising the public to call 911 and get immediate emergency medical treatment for anyone experiencing these symptoms after an insect sting, even if epinephrine has already been administered. The organization is also recommending that people contact an allergist/immunologist after their symptoms are treated. These specialists can recommend ongoing treatment options for people with insect allergies.

These recommendations were provided by the American Academy of Allergy and Immunology in a recent press release.

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