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It only takes one time to witness someone's allergic reaction to a bee sting to understand what dangers the insects can pose to humans. A severe reaction, known as anaphylaxis, can include shortness of breath, nausea, a rapid pulse, swelling in the mouth area and even fainting. If you do not receive immediate treatment, a sting can be life threatening.
If you are worried about what might happen if you ever suffer from a bee sting, you can find out if you are allergic to the insects. In addition, you can educate yourself on how to lessen the chances of getting stung.
Make an Appointment for a Skin and Allergy Blood Test
When you are concerned about whether or not you are allergic to bee stings, you can undergo two types of tests to find out if you are vulnerable to the insect's venom: a blood test and a skin test. Your doctor may recommend that you undergo both tests.
During a blood test, a medical professional will take a sample of your blood and send it to a lab for analysis. The lab technicians will determine the amount of antibodies in your blood that can cause an allergic reaction to bee venom.
A skin test is a quicker procedure. It involves injecting a very small amount of bee venom into your skin, usually on your back or arm. If you are allergic, a small raised bump will appear at the injection site. Because the amount of venom used in this test is minute, it is a safe procedure even if your test is positive.
Protect Yourself
If tests determine that you are allergic to bee stings, your doctor may recommend that you carry emergency medicine with you at all times. This may include an emergency epinephrine auto injector, a syringe that contains medicine to halt the effects of a bee sting so you do not have a life threatening reaction such as anaphylactic shock.
Even if you feel fine after using an auto injector, you should seek medical care. Doctors may need to provide you with treatments to help you breathe easier and reduce inflammation in your air passages.
Reduce Your Chances of Getting Stung
While you cannot predict when you will encounter a bee, you can reduce your chances of getting stung by following a few precautions.
If you do encounter one or more bees, try to stay calm and do not swat at the insects. If you are near shelter, go inside as soon as possible.
For more information, contact Oak Brook Allergists or a similar location.
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