Treatment for Anaphylaxis After a Bee Sting

Anaphylaxis can develop quickly after a sting. Warning signs include swelling of the tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, wheezing, hoarse voice, widespread hives, dizziness, collapse, vomiting or severe abdominal pain. Skin symptoms may be absent, so sudden breathing or circulation problems still require emergency action. A local red, painful swelling around the sting alone is not the same as anaphylaxis, but symptoms can evolve and should be watched carefully.

Use the prescribed adrenaline auto-injector into the outer mid-thigh as soon as anaphylaxis is suspected, following its instructions. Call emergency services and say anaphylaxis is suspected. Lie the person flat with legs raised if comfortable; allow sitting only if breathing is difficult, and place an unconscious breathing person on their side. Do not let them stand or walk. Use a second injector if symptoms continue and the device instructions or emergency dispatcher advises it. If a stinger is visible, remove it promptly without delaying adrenaline. Do not rely on an antihistamine for breathing or circulation symptoms.

Emergency assessment is required after an adrenaline injection because symptoms can return and further treatment or observation may be needed. Start resuscitation if the person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally, following dispatcher instructions. Anyone with a previous severe sting reaction should discuss an emergency plan, carry prescribed injectors, and check that household members know where they are and how to use them.

Ask whether allergy testing is appropriate, how many injectors to carry, when to replace them, and how to make a written avoidance and emergency plan. Discuss referral to an allergy specialist and what family, school or workplace contacts should know.