Swelling, hives, and itchiness are the result of being bitten by a bee.
In people who are allergic to bee stings, this may develop into something more serious.
Difficulty in breathing, increased heart rate, and a sudden blood pressure drop may be experienced.
This is called an anaphylactic reaction.
Anaphylactic reactions are extremely serious and can prove to be fatal.
This is why a person must be aware if he or she has an allergy to bee stings.
The individual can approach the nearest allergy, dermatology, or immunology clinic to be properly assessed.
A skin prick test or a patch test may be performed.
Allergies develop when the person's immune system goes hay wire.
This means the body reacts negatively once when that person is stung by a bee.
An allergy is a genetic condition.
If the mother or father has an allergy to bee stings, chances are high that their children may also be allergic.
When it is confirmed that the person is truly allergic to bee stings, several precautionary measures can be taken.
First, medications for the allergy must be brought along constantly.
If the individual has been prescribed epinephrine injection, this should be carried especially when going camping or hiking.
Oral antihistamines and inhalers for asthma may also be brought along.
Second, check the venue beforehand when planning for any outdoor activity.
This is especially important if allergic children are around.
They might stumble upon a hive and accidentally get bitten.
Third, wear proper clothing when venturing outdoors.
Long sleeved shirts and pants may be worn to provide a barrier against the sting.
The clothing might prevent the penetration of the stinger should a bee accidentally sting.
Fourth, avoid places where there are high incidences of people getting stung by a bee.
Obviously, living close or visiting a bee farm or countryside will increase the likelihood of being stung by a bee.
Conversely, living in cities with little or no bees will decrease the probability.
Lastly, always be conscious of your environment.
Look around for hives above or on the ground.
Observe if there are bees buzzing around the area.
If you do see a hive, stay away.
If you have your children with you and they are allergic.
Also ask them to stay away and resist playing near or around the hive.
Explain what could happen if they get stung by a bee.
Avoiding getting stung by a bee is the primary method of preventing an allergic attack from bee stings.
Remember, it is more prudent and simpler to avoid the cause of the reaction.