Bee Sting Allergy: What You Need To Know

Most people who are stung by a bee will have a swelling or redness in the immediate area of the sting. This generally passes within a few hours for some and can take up to a week in others. These are the norm and the more general and mild symptoms of a bee sting allergic reaction. Some of the insects that sting us are hornets, yellow jackets, Africanized bees and wasps.

The more severe stings can cause many more complicated and in some cases life threatening reactions. This is known as anaphylaxis. When a person has this type of reaction their symptoms are far more severe and can include the following:

• Severe itching all over and not just at the area in which they were stung
• Hives or swelling that spreads beyond the site of the sting
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Swelling of the tongue lips and throat
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Nausea vomiting or diarrhea
• Passing out
• Heart racing
• Drop in blood pressure

People who have a history of other allergic diseases such as asthma or hay fever are more at risk for having a severe reaction. People who are known to have a severe reaction to a bee sting should be prepared and try to carry an Epi-pen with them if they are going to be somewhere where there is a risk of being stung such as on a hike or in the woods.

Ways to help prevent being stung

There are some simple things that you can do to prevent getting stung in the first place

• Avoid wearing bright colors
• Avoid wearing perfume
• Wear long sleeves and long pants protecting your skin
• Do not provoke bees by poking at their hive
• If you find a hive do not try to deal with it yourself call in a professional
• Wear shoes when walking outside especially on a grassy area

Conclusion

While a bee sting can be a serious thing for the most part they are not that common. There are enough things you can do to prevent yourself from being stung and if you are ever stung know the signs of a normal reaction versus a severe one so you will know when to get help.

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