Bee Stings & Allergies

Getting stung is part of beekeeping. Understanding reactions, prevention, and when to seek help keeps you safe while enjoying your bees.

Why Bees Sting

Honey bees sting defensively to protect the colony:

Crushing or squeezing bees
Threatening the hive entrance
Dark colors (remind bees of bears)
Bananas/banana scented products (similar to alarm pheromone!)
Fast movements
Strong odors (perfume, sweat)

Types of Reactions

Normal Local Reaction

Pain at sting site (immediate)
Swelling (up to 2")
Redness and itching
Resolves in hours to days

Large Local Reaction

Swelling extends beyond sting site (4-10")
May increase over 24-48 hours
Can last up to a week
NOT systemic allergy, but uncomfortable

🚨 Systemic/Anaphylactic Reaction - EMERGENCY

Call 911 immediately if you experience:

Hives/itching AWAY from sting site
Swelling of throat, tongue, or face
Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Dizziness or fainting
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Rapid heartbeat

Use epinephrine (EpiPen) if available and get emergency help!

Treating Normal Stings

Remove stinger: Scrape out (don't squeeze!) within 20 seconds
Wash: Clean with soap and water
Cold compress: Reduces swelling
Pain relief: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen
Antihistamine: Reduces itching (Benadryl)
Don't scratch: Can cause infection

⏱️ Speed Matters

The stinger keeps pumping venom for 2-3 minutes. Remove it as quickly as possible—scrape with a fingernail or credit card. Don't worry about "squeezing" it; speed is more important than technique.

Preventing Stings

Wear appropriate protective gear
Use smoke properly
Work hives on warm, sunny days
Move slowly and calmly
Avoid dark clothing
Don't wear perfume or scented products
Keep colonies gentle (requeen aggressive hives)

Can Allergic People Keep Bees?

It depends on the severity and your doctor's advice:

Large Local Reactions

Many beekeepers have these and continue safely with good protection and antihistamines.

Systemic/Anaphylactic Reactions

Consult an allergist
Consider venom immunotherapy (VIT)
Always carry epinephrine
Never work bees alone
Some should not keep bees—be honest with yourself

Venom Immunotherapy (VIT)

VIT can dramatically reduce allergy severity:

97% effectiveness for bee venom allergy
Involves regular injections over 3-5 years
Covered by most insurance
Allows many allergic people to continue beekeeping

Building Tolerance?

Some beekeepers notice reduced reactions over time. However:

Tolerance can go either way
Some develop worse reactions over years
Don't count on building immunity
Get tested if reactions seem to be worsening

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