As with most reactions to foreign substances, it is hard to judge an
individuals' reaction since there is such variation from one person to
the next.  This discussion wanders a bit from bee biology, but perhaps
a reminder about the proper way to remove a stinger is in order.  When
a honey bee stings, the stinger as well as the venom sac remains
embedded in the victim's skin.  (Actually the victim is the honey bee,
but that is another discussion).  If you remove the stinger by grasping
it with your thumb and forefinger, you effectively inject a full dose
of venom into yourself and the reaction will be greater.  Remember to
scratch the stinger away from the sting without putting any more
pressure on the venom sac, unless of course you are experimenting to
determine the best dosage to keep up immunity.