While many people who get stung by a bee will experience swelling and discomfort, others may have an allergic reaction that can range from mild to life-threatening. However, it can often be challenging to know if you or a family member is at risk of these effects. Consider the following breakdown of the signs of an allergy and what to do to prevent or treat them, from pest control to seeking medical attention.

Ways to Know If You and Your Family Are Allergic to Bees

What Causes an Allergy?

An allergy happens when the body detects a foreign substance, and the immune system overreacts by producing histamine. Histamine is a chemical that causes symptoms of an allergy, such as sneezing, coughing, and inflammation. In the case of a bee sting allergy, the venom from the stinger contains proteins that affect the skin cells and immune system, triggering swelling and pain at the site of the sting or bite.

Bee sting allergies can range from mild to severe. Minor reactions include sharp burning, welts, and swelling where the sting occurred. Some people with moderate allergies will have excessive redness and swelling that gets worse instead of improving. In more severe cases, the person may experience anaphylaxis, which can consist of hives, paleness, trouble breathing, swelling of the throat and tongue, and fluctuations in their pulse. The person may feel faint and might lose consciousness, and they might also experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Anaphylaxis requires emergency medical treatment, as it can restrict airways and cause significant difficulty with breathing.

Steps to Take If You Get Stung

If severe symptoms occur and the person has a prescription for an epinephrine shot, administer it immediately and call 911. If they do not, call for emergency assistance immediately. For less severe cases, sufferers can take an antihistamine and apply hydrocortisone cream for any swelling. Applying ice for 10 minutes and then off for 10 minutes will also help with swelling and itching.

There are ways to lower the risk of a bee sting and avoid a potentially dangerous situation. When outside, avoid open shoes or bare feet in grassy areas, and take precautions when eating and drinking outside. Soda cans often attract bees because they contain sugar. Avoid bright colors and perfumes, and never swat aggressively at a bee that comes near you, as this will agitate it and make it more aggressive.

You should always have your property inspected for beehives by a pest control expert at the beginning of the spring and summer. They will have the knowledge and tools to safely eliminate threats around your yard and in other places like decks and in gutters.

 

When you need pest control in New Braunfels, TX, as well as Seguin, San Marcos, Schertz, and surrounding areas, All Service is the exterminator to call. From bees and ants to fleas and roaches, their offerings ensure that your property is free from pesky invaders. In addition to pests, they also provide animal control, chimney sweeping, and vent cleaning. For a pest control appointment, call (830) 626-2847. Check out their website for their latest 10% coupon and other specials.