What to Do if You’re Allergic to Bees and Get Stung

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Allergic to Bee Stings? Stay Calm and Take Action

What to Do if You’re Allergic to Bees and Get Stung | Reach for Your Lifeline—An Epinephrine Auto-Injector
I’ve worked with bees for more than two decades, and in that time, I’ve met plenty of folks who fear stings more than the insects themselves.
If you’re allergic, that fear is justified—but fear alone doesn’t keep you safe.
What does it mean to know exactly what to do in the moment? Let’s slow this down and walk through it in plain words.

Step One: Recognize What’s Happening in Your Body After Getting Stung

Not every sting is dangerous. In fact, most bee stings only cause swelling, pain, and redness at the site.

But here’s what science tells us: around 1% of people in the U.S. are allergic to bee stings. That means most of your neighbors will just complain about the pain, while a small group can develop a severe reaction known as anaphylaxis.

If you fall into that 1%, your body won’t just itch or swell—it can shut down. That’s why knowing your allergy status before you ever get stung is half the battle.

Step Two: Reach for Your Lifeline—An Epinephrine Auto-Injector

If you’re allergic, your best friend isn’t an ice pack. It’s an epinephrine auto-injector (commonly known by brand names like EpiPen). This little device isn’t just a recommendation; it’s a proven lifesaver.

The process is straightforward:
  • Press it firmly against your thigh.
  • It injects the medicine automatically.
  • Your airway reopens, and your blood pressure stabilizes.
No one should ever be without one if they know they’re allergic.
Think of it as carrying a seatbelt for your immune system—you hope you never need it, but you’re grateful when it’s there.

Step Three: Time Is Not Your Friend When Allergic to Bee Stings

Epinephrine is only the first step. Even after using it, you must call emergency services immediately.
Why? Because allergic reactions can return in waves. Doctors call this a biphasic reaction. You don’t want to gamble with your breathing or your heart.
If you’re not allergic, this is where your path diverges: wash the sting, apply ice, and continue with your day. But if you are allergic, the ER is the safest next stop.

Step Four: Preventing Bee Allergies Is Better than Reacting

I’ve relocated thousands of colonies, and I’ll tell you this—bees don’t want to sting you.
Most stings occur when bees feel cornered or when their hives are disturbed. Professional removal is always safer than swatting, spraying, or ignoring a hive near your home.

That’s where I step in. My work is about giving bees a new home while giving you peace of mind. If you’d like to read more about why bees matter, take a look at this article on bumblebees. It shows the bigger picture—bees are not your enemy, even if their sting can be.

The Quiet Truth Few Say Out Loud

While most bee stings cause only local reactions, a small percentage of people (around 1%) can develop allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, after being stung by bumblebees or honeybees, which can be life-threatening.

That’s the sobering fact. But it’s also empowering. Because now you know where you stand.
  • If you’re not allergic, breathe easy—most stings are a nuisance, nothing more.
  • If you are allergic, take the simple steps: carry your epinephrine, use it without hesitation, and always seek medical care after.
This isn’t about panic. It’s about preparation. And preparation is what saves lives.

Final Note from a Bee Man

For 26+ years, I’ve cared for bees and for people. If there’s one lesson I want you to take away, it’s this: a sting doesn’t have to be a tragedy.

With knowledge, with an epinephrine auto-injector, and with the right help, it’s simply another moment you get through.

Stay calm. Stay ready. And if bees are buzzing too close to home, don’t handle it alone—call our professional bee relocators, who respect both you and the bees.

Experience the Buzz of Safe Bee Removal.

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