The Nature of Bee Sting Allergy

Allergy to bee stings and other flying stinging insects (wasps, yellow jackets, hornets, and honeybees) are relatively common. Many people who are stung by bees will develop an allergic reaction at the site of the sting that often cause swelling, pain, redness and itching.

For some rare cases, a small percent of people--about 12% to15% --will also experience larger areas of swelling that can last for up to a week. In addition, very few people can develop anaphylaxis--a serious, life-threatening allergic response that can affect multiple organ-systems of the body. A small percentage of children and about 3% of adults will be affected by anaphylaxis after a bee sting.

In general, only those people with a history of other allergic disease like allergic rhinitis and asthma are more likely to have allergic reactions to bee stings. A low number of deaths were attributed to venom allergy but not directly coming from bee stings.

Allergy to bee stings can be normally be taken care of by the same medications use for other common allergies. However, if the symptoms are persistent in the area of the stung or you are having adverse complications, be sure to consult your doctor for proper prescription and treatment.