What To Know About Bee Sting Allergies

What To Know About Bee Sting Allergies



What To Know About Bee Sting Allergies


A bee sting can trigger an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. This reaction may include hives, swelling in the throat or tongue, skin redness, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness, among other symptoms.


Bee stings can cause reactions from minor irritation to anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Most people experience only temporary pain and discomfort at the site of the sting. However, some people can have a more severe reaction that requires medical attention.



Are Bee Sting Allergies Common?


Approximately 5-7.5% of individuals will have a severe allergic reaction to insect stings at some point, with beekeepers particularly at risk at 32%. Most people who have been stung will only experience a mild to moderate reaction, which manifests as redness and swelling in the affected area.


Some individuals can have a very extreme response to being stung by a bee, wasp, or fire ant, necessitating emergency care. Fortunately, fatalities are uncommon. Honeybees, paper wasps, and yellow jackets will likely produce severe reactions. Systemic allergic reactions, which can affect the skin, respiratory system, and other body areas, are usually provoked by the venom of bees, wasps, and fire ants.



Causes Of The Allergic Reaction


A bee stinging leaves a barbed stinger embedded in the skin, which can continue to release venom for up to a minute after the bee has flown away. This venom contains proteins that can cause inflammation and pain at the site of the sting, even in those who are not allergic to the venom.


People allergic to bee stings may not experience symptoms the first time, but a more severe reaction may occur when stung a second time. The venom triggers an excessive response from the immune system in these individuals.


When a person who is allergic is stung by a bee, their immune system produces an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE). Usually, IgE helps to defend the body against viruses and parasites. However, when a person is stung by a bee, the IgE induces an inappropriate immune response, leading to hives, swelling, and breathing difficulties upon subsequent stings.



How Do I Know If I Am Allergic To Bee Stings?


Bee stings can cause a range of reactions, from mild to severe. The symptoms may be localised to the sting area if the reaction is mild. However, the allergic reaction can spread to other body parts in more severe cases.


The reaction to a bee sting can vary from person to person and even from one sting to the next. It is essential to be aware of the possible symptoms associated with different levels of reactions so that the proper treatment can be given. Localised reactions are common, but other responses, such as anaphylaxis, may occur.


Symptoms


A person's reaction to a bee sting can range from mild to severe, depending on their allergies. Symptoms of a bee sting usually appear shortly after being stung. These can include:


Mild Reaction


Most bee sting symptoms are mild and do not require medical attention. They are limited to the site of the sting itself and include:

  • There is a sharp, burning sensation

  • Skin that is red and raised

  • Swelling on the face


Moderate Reaction


A moderate bee sting reaction, a large local reaction (LLR), usually produces a more robust immune response to the bee venom. Symptoms of an LLR can last for up to a week before the person experiences complete relief.


People who have been stung may experience severe redness and swelling in and around the sting, which may enlarge up to 10 cm throughout 24 to 48 hours.


The first sting triggers the body to produce antibodies to fight the venom, which can cross-react with malice from other stinging insects. If the second sting occurs, the body is more likely to have a severe allergic reaction.


Severe Allergic Reaction


Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur in some people after being stung by a bee. This reaction can happen quickly, and the following symptoms may be present:

  • Itchy, Red Hives On The Skin

  • A Weak, Rapid Pulse

  • Dizziness

  • A Swollen Throat Or Tongue

  • Nausea And Vomiting

  • Loss Of Consciousness

  • Pale Or Flushed Skin

  • Difficulty Breathing

  • Abdominal Pain



Treatment For Bee Sting Reactions


The seriousness of the bee sting reaction will determine the appropriate course of treatment.


Treating A Mild To Moderate Reaction


It is important to promptly remove the bee stinger after a sting, as this will help to reduce the amount of venom released into the bloodstream. Using tweezers to remove the stinger is not recommended as this may cause the venom sac to be squeezed and release more venom. The best way to remove a stinger is to carefully scrape it off with a fingernail or a credit card.


To relieve itching and swelling caused by insect bites, you can use a cold compress, apply steroid creams or ointments, and take antihistamine medications. Generally, the symptoms should fade within a couple of days.


Treating A Severe Reaction


In extreme, all-body allergic reactions, it is essential to seek medical help immediately. An injection of epinephrine is necessary to reduce the seriousness of the reaction. Additionally, oxygen and intravenous fluids may be administered by a doctor to help bring the body back to a stable state.


A person with a severe allergy should always have an epinephrine injection device (EpiPen) with them. This device should be used immediately in a severe allergic reaction to help reverse the symptoms. Doing so can help prevent further complications and should be done as soon as possible.


If you are experiencing anaphylaxis symptoms, the best action is to seek medical attention immediately. Time is of the essence, as venom anaphylaxis can cause cardiac arrest within minutes of being stung. When waiting for emergency services, laying on your back with your feet elevated is essential. This will help to counteract dizziness and weakness by increasing blood flow to your heart.


Long-Term Treatment


Venom Immunotherapy (VIT) is a type of desensitisation immunotherapy used to mitigate someone's reaction to specific allergens like bee stings. It is recommended for those with a significant allergic response or at high risk of experiencing one.


The VIT process involves a series of injections of escalating amounts of bee venom. Over several years, the body's immune system becomes more tolerant of the venom as the doses gradually increase.


For those who suffer from severe allergic reactions from bee stings, a review in 2015 suggested that VIT may be an effective treatment option. It is recommended that those who are considering VIT seek additional information from their doctor or allergist.


Preventing Bee Sting Allergies


To minimise the risk of being stung by a bee when outside, those with a bee allergy should take the following precautions:

  • Refrain from walking barefoot or in sandals.

  • Ensure arms and legs are appropriately covered.

  • Choose clothing that is not brightly coloured or adorned with floral prints.

  • Minimise the use of strong perfumes.

  • Before dining outdoors, inspect the area for bees and flying insects.

  • When eating outside, cover food and remain vigilant for items attracting bees.

  • Keep windows closed while driving to prevent insects from entering.


If you come into contact with bees, there are specific steps you should take to ensure your safety.

  • Avoid swatting at bees, as they may sting defensively.

  • If a bee approaches, calmly and slowly move away.

  • Stay composed if a bee lands on you; it typically flies away within seconds.

  • When you encounter a bee or wasp nest at home or in the garden, please ask for help from a local pest control expert rather than attempting removal alone.



Outlook


People can typically treat mild and temporary bee sting symptoms at home, as most stings only cause minor discomfort.


Moderate reactions may not require urgent medical attention. However, individuals should consult with a doctor if they are worried about potential reactions to bee venom in the future.


People who have previously had an anaphylactic reaction to a bee sting are at increased risk for reacting again if stung. For this reason, it is essential for them to always have an EpiPen on hand to treat a reaction should it occur. Additionally, they should discuss with their doctor the possibility of undergoing venom immunotherapy treatment as a preventative measure.


You can connect with one of our doctors at Mobi Doctor with the click of a button and get the care you need.



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