Venoms

About this test and how it can help you

If you are insect-allergic, after the first sting, your body produces antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE). If stung again by the same kind of insect, the venom interacts with this specific IgE antibody, triggering the release of substances that cause an allergic reaction.

In severe reactions hypotension occurs, causing lightheadedness, giddiness, fainting, or loss of consciousness. Other less common features are abdominal pain, incontinence, central chest pain, or visual disturbances.

For a small number of people with venom allergy, stings may be life-threatening. This reaction is called anaphylaxis (an-a-fi-LAK-sis). Symptoms may include two or more of the following: itching and hives, swelling in the throat or tongue, difficulty breathing, dizziness, stomach cramps, nausea or diarrhea.

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction to a trigger, such as an allergy.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include feeling faint, finding it hard to breathe, a fast heartbeat and feeling anxious.

Anaphylaxis needs to be treated in hospital at soon as possible. Use an adrenaline injector if the person has one and call 999 for an ambulance.

Anaphylaxis is usually caused by an allergic reaction. Common triggers include foods, medicines and insect stings.

How it works when we send a Clinician to your home

Place Your Order

Schedule a home nurse visit for your venous blood sample.

Perform Your Blood Test

Our certified Healthcare Team member will come to your home for the collection.

View Results

Received the results within 24-48 hours.