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Allergy/Anaphylaxis or normal reaction?

Allergies

So I have a severe allergy to ticks (anaphylaxis), so I’m unfortunately quite familiar with the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Today I was bitten by a jumping ant approximately 10 minutes later I had hives, itchy eyes, itchy ears, a sore and itchy throat, a cough, severe stomach pain/nausea, tingly sensation in my limbs and a headache. I didn’t delay and I went to the nearest urgent care.

They did give me some antihistamines and steroids to be on the ‘safe side’ but I was also told that these aren’t signs of an allergic reaction and everyone feels this way after being bitten by an ant… now I’m clearly not dead so wasn’t having an anaphylactic reaction which is great but does anyone get similar symptoms after ant bites… is it normal or is it an allergy?

  1. Hi, !

    First, I am not able to offer medical advice/input, for your safety. But, that said, based on your history with allergies to insects, I think checking in with your regular physician or allergist would be a good idea. The reactions you experienced seemed a bit . . . strong for a single ant bite. Although, I am not too familiar with jumping ants, so keep that in mind.

    You know your body best and if you have any concerns about your reaction, you have every right to follow up with your physician and make an action plan for the "next time", should there be a next time.

    I think you were wise to take quick action, as it's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to severe allergies!

    Best, Erin, Team Member.

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