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Allergy Testing and Immunotherapy in Los Angeles, California

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Price: 49.0 USD
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Rating: 4.5 (234 reviews)

In Los Angeles, California, allergens like ragweed, dust mites, and mold are common. Allergy immunotherapy can help build resistance against these allergens, providing relief from allergy symptoms and improving quality of life.

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Caterpillars Allergy: Signs & Relief

Discover caterpillars allergy: symptoms, diagnosis with Curex, treatment tips, US growth insights, avoidance strategies, and diet advice.

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#1 Online
Allergy Clinic

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50,000+
users

Reviewed by Curex clinical team

Dr. Chet Tharpe, M.D..

Updated May 3, 2025

Key Symptoms of Caterpillars Allergy

Skin Rash or Dermatitis

If you are allergic to caterpillars, you may develop a skin rash or dermatitis. This is characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed skin that can sometimes blister. The skin rash usually develops at the site of contact with the caterpillar.

Respiratory Symptoms

One of the symptoms of caterpillar allergy can be respiratory problems. These may include difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, and a tight feeling in the chest. These symptoms result from an allergic reaction that causes inflammation in the airways.

Eye Irritation

Eye irritation is another symptom that can occur with a caterpillar allergy. The irritation may cause redness, itching, and watering of the eyes. This usually occurs when the allergens from the caterpillar come into contact with the eye.

Nasal Symptoms

Nasal symptoms are also common with a caterpillar allergy. This can include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and postnasal drip. These symptoms arise when the body's immune system responds to the caterpillar allergens.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Some people may experience gastrointestinal symptoms as a result of a caterpillar allergy. This may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. These symptoms can occur if the allergens are ingested, such as when a child accidentally puts a caterpillar in their mouth.

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur in people with severe caterpillar allergies. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, a rapid drop in blood pressure, dizziness or loss of consciousness, and a rapid or weak pulse. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.

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How to Recognize if You're Allergic to Caterpillars

Identify Allergy Signs and Symptoms

People who are allergic to caterpillars may exhibit a range of symptoms. These include:

Rash or Hives: An immediate skin reaction such as redness, itching, or hives would appear.
Scratchy Throat: Hard to swallow due to intense scratchiness in the throat.
Respiratory problems: Shortness of breath or wheezing could signify an allergy.

Analyze Recent Activity

If these symptoms coincide with recent activities that involve contact with caterpillars, it could indicate an allergy. For example:

Gardening and Landscaping: Exposure to plants and insects including caterpillars.
Outdoor Activities: Such as hiking or camping where you may come into contact with caterpillars.

Consult with a Healthcare Professional

If you suspect you have a caterpillar allergy, it's important to seek professional medical advice. An allergist will be best equipped to identify a caterpillar allergy. They may conduct skin prick tests, blood tests, or other methods of testing to confirm your allergies.

Clinical Support

Our team is here to help!

Dr. Neeta Ogden, MD

Curex is poised to revolutionize the way allergies are treated in America, expanding access to clinical care and treatments that can meaningfully improve patients quality of life.

Dr. Ravi Patel, VP Telemedicine

At Curex, our mission is to help people improve their health and quality of life by understanding their allergies and treating them at their source.We provide more than individualized prescription treatments; we provide individualized care.

Jill Hamburg, PA - C

Immunotherapy made simple. We enable patients to receive personalized allergy care on their own time. No more waiting rooms.

Dr. Chet Tharpe, Medical Director

Curex has set the standard for the virtual allergy experience. From the comfort of their home, patients nationwide are able to receive a personalized treatment plan from an experienced clinician, aimed at treating the source of their allergies, not just the symptoms.

Kayla Mardaga, NP

Curex offers convenient at-home allergy testing options. Our goal is to determine if a patient would benefit from immunotherapy and then customize a treatment plan that can reduce both the symptoms and the reliance on allergy medications.

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“I've noticed less sneezing and shortness of breath.”

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When Caterpillars Grows and Its Impacts

Caterpillars, though not an allergen itself, can become a source of allergic reactions in the U.S. due to their hairs or bristles. These creatures generally have two main periods of growth. The first growth stage occurs in the spring, starting around late March to early April, which aligns with the emergence of leaves on many plants. Their presence continues into late June. The second stage of growth occurs in late summer to early fall, from about late August to early October.

Spring Growth

Start Time: Late March - Early April
End Time: Late June

Fall Growth

Start Time: Late August
End Time: Early October

Where Caterpillars Grows Across the USA?

Caterpillars in Eastern United States

Caterpillars, particularly species that cause allergies such as the Brown-tail and Gypsy Moth caterpillars, are found in the Eastern United States. Brown-tail caterpillars are primarily found in coastal Maine and Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Gypsy Moth caterpillars are more widespread across the Eastern US, extending westward to Wisconsin and southward to North Carolina.

Caterpillars in Southern United States

In Southern states like Florida and Texas, caterpillars like the Puss Caterpillar and the Io Moth caterpillar can cause severe allergic reactions. These caterpillars are commonly found in wooded areas and gardens.

Caterpillars in Western United States

The Argent and Sable caterpillar, which can also cause allergies, is distributed throughout the Western United States, with California serving as a major habitat. Other species like the Douglas-fir Tussock caterpillar can be found in the Pacific Northwest.

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Diagnostic of Caterpillars Allergy with Curex

At-Home Automatic Test Kit

Receive a painless automatic blood collector at-home. Takes less than 5 minutes. Ship it back when done

In-Lab Test

Take your test at a local lab location. (often available same day)

Concierge At-Home Test

A medical professional comes to your home or office for a quick blood draw.(schedule 5-7 days in advance)

Tips for Avoiding Caterpillars Allergy

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Avoid Direct Contact

Caterpillars can cause an allergic reaction when they come into direct contact with your skin. Therefore, to avoid an allergic reaction, it's essential to avoid touching them. If you have to deal with caterpillars, use protective clothing, including long-sleeve shirts, gloves, and hats.

Keep Away Caterpillar Infestations

The best way to avoid contact with caterpillars is to keep them out of the home and the garden. Regular checks of your outdoor areas for caterpillar infestations are crucial. If you find one, quickly get it treated or removed by a pest control professional.

Be Aware of Caterpillar Season

Most caterpillars appear during warmer months or certain seasons. Be aware of when caterpillars are most common in your area and take extra precautions during this time. This could include staying indoors more often or investing in pest control.

Use Hypo-allergenic Creams and Lotions

If you are allergic to caterpillars, using hypo-allergenic creams and lotions can help to reduce the risk of a reaction. Always have some available, especially during caterpillar season. These can soothe any minor skin irritations quickly and prevent any severe allergic reaction.

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Treatment taken daily under the tongue

Evaluation & allergy test at home

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ALLERGY SHOTS

Prevents allergies long term

Commute to clinic every week

Treatment injected weekly by syringe

Evaluation and testing in the clinic

Clinical visits require scheduling

Surprise insurance bills and high copays

Diet to Ease Caterpillars Allergy Symptoms

To ease the symptoms of a caterpillar allergy, incorporating foods that boost your immune system and overall health is recommended. A diet rich in Vitamin C, Omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics can be beneficial.

Foods Rich in Vitamin C

Citrus Fruits: Such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits can boost your immune system.
Red Peppers: These are not only rich in Vitamin C but also carry other nutrients beneficial for your immune system.

Omega-3 Rich Foods

Fish: Such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in Omega-3.
Walnuts and Flaxseeds: These are a good vegetarian source of Omega-3 fatty acids.

Probiotic-Rich Foods

Yoghurt: Regular, unsweetened yoghurt is rich in probiotics which aid gut health and immune function.
Fermented Foods: Like sauerkraut, miso, and tempeh are also rich in probiotics.

Keeping hydrated with water help flush out toxins. Eating a balanced diet along with regular exercise and adequate sleep promotes overall health and helps your body manage allergies more effectively.

What Food Worsens Caterpillars Allergy

If you have an allergy to caterpillars, certain foods may worsen your symptoms as they contain proteins similar to those found in caterpillars. Eating these foods can trigger a cross-reactive allergic reaction.

Avoid Eating Raw Foods Known For Cross-Reactivity

Shellfish: Crustaceans such as shrimp, lobsters, and crabs share similar proteins with caterpillars. Consuming these can cause your symptoms to flare.
Tomatoes and Carrots: These vegetables have been known to cross-react with caterpillar allergens, and could potentially exacerbate your symptoms.

Shun Consuming Exotic and Unfamiliar Foods

Insects and Bugs: Other insects and bugs can also contain proteins similar to caterpillars. Avoid bug-based foods or dishes.
Exotic Fruits: Some people with caterpillar allergy report reactions to certain exotic fruits as they might contain similar proteins.

Remember, the severity of your cross-reaction can vary. It's essential to consult your allergist or dietitian before making significant changes to your diet.

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Allergy FAQ

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How does a caterpillar allergy develop?

Development of Caterpillar Allergy

Caterpillar allergies occur when proteins from their hairs or setae come into contact with skin, eyes, or respiratory system, triggering an immune response.

These hairs can be airborne or come from direct contact, leading to reactions like rashes, itching, or respiratory issues.

Individuals with asthma or other allergies may be more susceptible due to their heightened immune response.

Can caterpillar allergies trigger cross-reactivity with other allergens?

Cross-Reactivity and Allergens

Caterpillar allergies are known to cause cross-reactivity with other allergens due to the presence of shared protein structures, which can confuse the immune system.

Common allergens with potential cross-reactivity include other arthropods like crustaceans and insects.

Other environmental allergens such as plant pollen might also exhibit cross-reactivity under certain circumstances.

What species of caterpillars are most likely to cause allergic reactions?

Caterpillars Causing Allergic Reactions

The Pine Processionary caterpillar can cause severe allergic reactions due to its urticating hairs.

The Brown-tail moth caterpillar releases toxic hairs that can provoke dermatological and respiratory reactions.

The Io moth caterpillar’s spines can deliver a painful sting that may lead to allergic symptoms in susceptible individuals.

Allergy Symptoms

Symptoms can include itching, rashes, respiratory distress, and in severe cases, anaphylactic reactions.

Immediate medical consultation is required to manage severe reactions effectively.

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Treatment prescribed
by clinician

Clinicaly made allergen extracts are customized for your allergies

Your immune system gets desensitized to allergens, giving you long-term relief.

At-home Immunotherapy

Benefits of Curex

At-home treatment

Apply treatments in minutes from the comfort of your own home with under-the-tongue applications instead of shots or pills

5-30x higher cumulative dose vs allergy shots

Sublingual immunotherapy delivers a higher dose of allergens over the course of treatment.

Potential for results in as few as 6 months

Individual results vary but some users have reported a noticeable difference in as few as 6-12 months since starting treatments

Excellent safety profile

Studies that have been reviewed by certified physicians show that sublingual immunotherapy is a safe treatment option

Allergy Testing and Immunotherapy in Los Angeles, California

Caterpillars Allergy: Signs & Relief

Reviewed by Curex clinical team