Warm weather brings many of us outdoors, along with bees, wasps, yellow jackets and other stinging insects. While they play an important role in our ecosystem, getting stung is never pleasant.
For most people, a bee or insect sting is a minor irritation. But for some, it can trigger a serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.
If you’re concerned about a bee sting allergy or want to know how to respond to an insect sting, here’s what to watch for and what to do.
What are the allergy symptoms of a sting?
Stings from bees and other stinging insects can cause a range of reactions. You may also react differently each time you are stung.
“It is possible to have a toxic reaction to the very first insect sting, but you are more likely to develop an allergy after previous stings have ‘sensitized’ you,” said Nora Odisho Domit, DO, an adult and pediatric allergist and immunologist with Banner - University Medicine.
Mild reactions
A mild, local reaction may include:
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling at the sting site
“You may notice a red bump that can be small or even as large as the size of a nickel or quarter, along with stinging or burning,” Dr. Odisho said.
Moderate reactions
A moderate reaction may include:
- Hives
- Increased redness
- Swelling that worsens over 1 to 2 days
You may not need urgent care, but it’s a good idea to follow up with your provider. They can help assess your risk and recommend next steps.
Severe reactions (anaphylaxis)
A severe allergic reaction can affect multiple systems in the body and requires emergency care.
Call 911 right away if you notice:
- Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat
- Trouble breathing, wheezing or chest tightness
- Hives or swelling away from the sting site
- Severe stomach pain
- Dizziness, fainting or extreme fatigue
- Clammy skin
How do I treat a bee sting?
For mild reactions:
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling
- Take an antihistamine (such as diphenhydramine or a non-drowsy option)
- Remove the stinger by gently scraping the skin with a flat object like a credit card
For severe reactions:
- Call 911 immediately
- Use an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) if available
[Also read “How to Recognize and Treat Allergic Reactions.”]
Can a test tell me if I’m allergic?
Two types of tests may be used to tell if you are allergic:
- Blood tests
- Skin (scratch) tests
However, results are not always reliable. “As many as 40% of people can have a false positive result without ever having a serious reaction,” Dr. Odisho said. “Testing is most helpful after a severe allergic reaction.”
If I’m allergic to bee stings, am I allergic to others?
Not necessarily. Even though many stinging insects belong to the same group (hymenoptera), their venoms differ. Being allergic to one type does not always mean you will react to another.
How can I avoid getting stung?
If you have a bee sting allergy or want to reduce your risk:
- Avoid walking barefoot or wearing open sandals outdoors
- Stay away from garbage and food areas that attract insects
- Drink from closed containers when outside
- Stay calm if a bee is nearby; sudden movements can provoke stings
- Avoid bright colors and strong fragrances
- Do not attempt to remove nests yourself
- Carry an epinephrine auto-injector if you have a known allergy
Takeaway
Bee and insect stings are common, especially in warmer months. Most are mild, but some can be serious. Knowing the signs of an allergic reaction and how to respond can help you stay safe.
If you think you may have a bee sting allergy, talk with your health care provider. They can guide you on testing, prevention and treatment options.
Have concerns about an insect sting allergy?
Schedule an appointment with a primary care provider near you.
Schedule an appointment with an allergy and asthma care specialist.
