A member asked:

Hand swollen and red after fire ant bites...itchy...am i allergic?

4 doctors weighed in across 3 answers

Possible: Hard to tell as the fire ant bite is often red swollen and itchy just like really allergy. The protein component of the venom is indeed allergenic so subsequent stings may lead to progressively more severe reactions. If this happens see your doc.

Answered 6/23/2019

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Fire ant allergy: Yes , you are probably allergic to fire ants if you swell and itch locally when stung. You should have a sterile pustule at the site of each sting. These are diagnostic of fire ant stings. If you only have local reactions, it is a mild allergy and antihistamines should help. There is a small chance your next reaction could be worse; around 10%. See an allergist if you are worried.

Answered 8/1/2018

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Dr. Heidi Fowler answered

Specializes in Psychiatry

Not certain.: Reactions can present variably. About 15% of people have fire ant sting allergies. The symptoms may be mild or could be more severe. If you live in an area where imported tropical fire ants thrive - then evaluation by an allergist may be your most prudent course of action. If indicated desensitization is possible with an imported fire ant vaccine.

Answered 7/22/2013

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