DiagnosisIf you've had a reaction to bee stings that suggests you might be allergic to bee venom, your doctor may suggest one or both of the following tests: Show
Allergy skin tests and allergy blood tests are often used together to diagnose insect allergies. Your doctor may also want to test you for allergies to yellow jackets, hornets and wasps — which can cause allergic reactions similar to those of bee stings. TreatmentFor ordinary bee stings that do not cause an allergic reaction, home treatment is enough. Multiple stings or an allergic reaction, on the other hand, can be a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. Emergency treatment for allergic reactionsDuring an anaphylactic attack, an emergency medical team may perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if you stop breathing or your heart stops beating. You may be given medications including:
Epinephrine autoinjectorIf you're allergic to bee stings, your doctor is likely to prescribe an emergency epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, others). You'll need to have it with you at all times. An autoinjector is a combined syringe and concealed needle that injects a single dose of medication when pressed against your thigh. Always be sure to replace epinephrine by its expiration date. Be sure you know how to use the autoinjector. Also, make sure the people closest to you know how to administer the drug — if they're with you in an anaphylactic emergency, they could save your life. Medical personnel called in to respond to a severe anaphylactic reaction also may give you an epinephrine injection or another medication. Consider wearing an alert bracelet that identifies your allergy to bee or other insect stings. Allergy shotsBee and other insect stings are a common cause of anaphylaxis. If you've had a serious reaction to a bee sting or multiple stings, your doctor likely will refer you to an allergist for allergy testing and consideration of allergy shots (immunotherapy). These shots, generally given regularly for a few years, can reduce or eliminate your allergic response to bee venom. Sign up for free, and stay up
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treat all of that information as protected health information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of privacy practices. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. Lifestyle and home remediesIf a bee stings you or your child, follow the suggestions below. Treatment for minor reactions
Treatment for moderate reactionsThe following steps may help ease the swelling and itching often associated with large local reactions:
Preparing for your appointmentBee and other insect stings are a common cause of anaphylaxis. If you've had a serious reaction to a bee sting but did not seek emergency treatment, consult your doctor. He or she may refer you to an allergy specialist (allergist) who can determine whether you're allergic to bee or other insect venom and can help you find ways to prevent future allergic reactions. Your doctor or allergist will do a thorough physical examination and will want to know:
Some questions you might want to ask your doctor include:
Don't hesitate to ask other questions, as well. Aug. 18, 2022 How do you treat a bee sting?Apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to ease redness, itching or swelling. If itching or swelling is bothersome, take an oral antihistamine that contains diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or chlorpheniramine. Avoid scratching the sting area. This will worsen itching and swelling and increase your risk of infection.
How long does a bee sting last for?Severe pain or burning at the site lasts 1 to 2 hours. Normal swelling from venom can increase for 48 hours after the sting. The redness can last 3 days. The swelling can last 7 days.
What happens if a bee stung you?Most of the time, bee sting symptoms are minor and include: Instant, sharp burning pain at the sting site. A red welt at the sting area. Slight swelling around the sting area.
When should I be concerned about a bee sting?Don't stop until you've reached a shelter. Call 911 if you've been stung more than 25-50 times, are having difficulty breathing, feel lightheaded or are having an allergic reaction.
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