The type of reaction a person has differs from person to person. In bee stings, for example, a person may break out in bee sting hives all over, while another barely has any swelling around the sting. Anaphylaxis is one of the most serious reactions. This reaction occurs with a quick onset and could be fatal if treatment is not prompt.
Honeybee stingers are usually left behind after the initial sting. Pinching the stinger in order to remove it may actually inject more venom in the skin. This is why it is best to remove the stinger with a knife edge or to flick it out of the skin with a finger nail (Medicinenet.com, 2011).
Many people use epinephrine to avoid the effects of bee stings and symptoms like bee sting hives. Self-injectable devices such as Epi-Pen, and ANA-kit are available. It only contains one dose, but that may keep you from having an anaphylaxis reaction or getting hives from bee sting venom. In addition to epinephrine oral antihistamines may also reduce the symptoms caused by the reaction.
Severe Reactions & Treatment
According to the Mayoclinic.com, it has been found that people who have had a severe allergic reaction to a bee sting will have a 30 to 60 percent chance of anaphylaxis next time their stung. The website suggests getting immunotherapy or taking other such preventative measures before getting stung again. So, if you have had a severe reaction it is best to talk to your doctor, an allergist, or an immunologist for advice and discussion.
Hives are one of the symptoms of an anaphylaxis attack. It is suggested that you treat it as an emergency, even if you have only a couple of the symptoms. So, if you get bee sting hives it may be best to seek medical treatment just to be sure. The following are other symptoms of anaphylaxis:
- Skin reactions that are not localized to the sting area
- Flushed or pale skin
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the throat or tongue
- A weak and rapid pulse
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Dizziness or fainting
- Loss of consciousness
Doctorsecrets.com suggests using baking soda or ammonia to reduce the pain of a bee sting. This actually will change the acidity of the sting site. Using a paste of meat tenderizer may also help to ‘digest’ the chemicals. Taking ibuprophen and antihistamines will help reduce swelling and pain. The website also recommends going straight to the hospital if you have any type of bee sting allergy at all. This includes bee sting hives.
