Everyone has a different reaction to insect stings. But in general, there are three types of reactions to insect venom:

A normal reaction with pain, swelling, and redness around the sting.

A large local reaction where swelling has gone beyond the sting. For example, if you’re stung on the ankle, your entire leg may swell up. While it looks alarming, it's usually no more serious than a normal reaction.

An allergic reaction requires immediate medical attention: hives, itching, and swelling in areas other than the sting; swelling of the tongue or throat; difficulty breathing; abdominal cramping; vomiting; nausea, diarrhea.

Insect venom could also cause you to go into anaphylactic shock, which typically occurs within minutes of being stung. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include impaired breathing, swelling in the throat, a sudden drop in blood pressure, pale skin or blue lips, dizziness, and fainting.

Because an allergy to insect venom can cause a life-threatening reaction, it’s incredibly important to get an accurate diagnosis.