Bee stings, while being very painful to endure, are rarely fatal. However, for those with allergic reactions to bee stings the situation can be extremely dangerous. In the case of anaphylactic shock, where the person develops a blocked airway emergency action must be taken promptly.

An allergic reaction to a bee sting may be evidenced by clear signs; symptoms can include:

* swollen eyelids or facial and neck tissue discoloration
* an itchy rash on the skin
* a change in the pitch of the patient's voice
* breathing difficulties
* altered conscious state

The sting from a bee is always extremely painful and as the sting will have an attached venom sack, it is important to remove it as soon as possible with a sideways scraping, using a fingernail or sharp instrument; take care in doing this and be aware that if you pull the sting straight out further venom may be injected. A cold compress can be applied to help with any pain and to limit the swelling.

If a person is displaying a severe allergic reaction to a bee sting then an ambulance should be called immediately.

Learn more about this author, David Braybrooke.
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