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Informed Discussion of Beekeeping Issues and Bee Biology

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Subject:
From:
DONALD M CAMPBELL <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Informed Discussion of Beekeeping Issues and Bee Biology <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Sun, 11 Aug 2002 09:43:53 -0400
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Hi Coleene,

I have had many similar experience. Most stings are mild but every once in a
while I get a severe swelling reaction like yours.  I think it depends on
the location of the sting, how much venom was injected and my immune state
at the time.

Some stings I received are like insect bites- small reaction and gone on 3
days. Other are like what you described, severe swelling in a large part of
the body near the site. ( half an arm, lower leg, ect.)
A face sting is the worst, because of the large capillaries located in the
head and neck, and the possibility that the swelling can cause breathing
problems.  So always use the headnet!!
It might be a good idea to get an EpiPen.  Ask your MD for a prescription.
Its a auto-injection of epinephrine. Only for life threating swelling or
allergic reactions.
I will sometimes use liquid benadryl (needs no prescription) if I feel the
sting will cause problems. Benadryl's antihistamine effects will mute a
great deal of the first 4 hours of reaction to the sting.
I hope this helps.

Don Campbell

Pharmacist and Beekeeper!

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