Allergies Health Center

Understanding Bee Sting Allergies -- Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms of a Bee Sting Allergy?

Symptoms of bee sting allergy with anaphylactic shock may include:

• Rapid swelling around the eyes, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Difficulty breathing and/or swallowing.
• Wheezing or hoarseness.
• Itching.
• Dizziness.
• A reddish rash or hives.
• Stomach cramps.
• Loss of consciousness.
• Diarrhea.
• Nausea.

In most cases, a bee or wasp sting causes only minor symptoms at the site of the sting, including:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Redness
• Itching or burning

Call Your Doctor About a Sting Allergy If:

• You are stung and develop any of the symptoms of anaphylactic shock. Get medical help immediately.
• You are allergic to bee or wasp stings and you are stung. You are at risk of anaphylactic shock. Even if your reaction to previous stings was mild, you may need emergency treatment.
• You think you might have had an allergic reaction to a sting in the past. Your doctor can test to see if you have an allergy to bee stings or are at risk for anaphylaxis.