Paper Wasp Allergy IgE Blood Test

Order a paper wasp allergy IgE blood test to detect an allergy to paper wasps. This test measures the amount of allergen-specific antibodies in a blood sample. Wasp stings are common, especially during the summer months when people spend more time outside. Paper wasps can be found in the eaves of buildings, as well as around windows and decks. They have a slim waist and can be a variety of colors, such as red, brown, black, or striped.

While a wasp sting is painful, the majority of individuals recover quickly and without complications. Wasps, like bees and hornets, have a stinger to defend themselves. The venom (a poisonous substance) in a wasp's stinger is transferred to humans during a sting. Wasp venom can cause severe pain and discomfort even without a lodged stinger. If you're allergic to the poison, you might have a serious reaction.

An allergy to paper wasps triggers a reaction in an individual's immune system. The body views certain substances as toxic and produces IgE antibodies to these contaminants. These antibodies cause histamine to be released, which will cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Allergy symptoms vary from one individual to the next ranging from mild to severe reactions, which can be experienced within minutes to hours after exposure. 

Mild reactions may cause one or more of these symptoms at the site of the sting:

• Itching
• Pain
• Mild to moderate swelling
• Redness
• Warmth
• Pimple-like spots

Severe reactions can include:

• Swelling of the face, throat, or mouth
• Hives
• Trouble breathing
• Restlessness and anxiety
• Rapid pulse
• Dizziness or a drop in blood pressure
• Trouble swallowing or wheezing
• Anaphylaxis