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Betsy's Buzz can't tell you whether you're allergic to stings. A doctor can. This page summarizes what the Mayo Clinic says, so you know what to ask before you buy bees or equipment.
In an emergency
Mayo Clinic says to call 911 (or your local emergency number) for a severe allergic reaction, even if you have only one or two symptoms. If you have been prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector, it says to inject it first and then call 911.
What Mayo Clinic says about severe reactions
- Anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction, usually happens 15 minutes to an hour after a sting.
- Signs include a rash, itching, trouble breathing, a swollen tongue, trouble swallowing and chest tightness.
- If you've had a severe reaction before, Mayo says on average there's a 50% chance of anaphylaxis the next time. It says to talk to a healthcare professional about prevention, such as allergy shots.
- Mayo says to see a healthcare professional if symptoms last more than three days or you've had other allergic symptoms.
- Mayo says that more than a dozen stings can make you quite sick.
- Mayo says a sting releases a chemical that attracts other bees, and suggests avoiding perfumes, bright colors and floral prints.
Questions to bring to a doctor
- I'm thinking about keeping bees, which means I'll be stung sooner or later. Should I be tested or take any precautions first?
- Have I ever had a reaction to a sting that went beyond the sting site? (Tell the doctor about any past reaction, however mild it seemed.)
- Should I carry epinephrine, and how do I use it?
- Who else will be near the hives, such as family, neighbors or children, and what should they know?
If you already keep bees
Keep your emergency plan simple and written down. MAAREC says to wear a veil at all times, and see bee suit or jacket? for what extension guides say about protective clothing. Protective clothing reduces stings; it doesn't prevent them.
This page isn't medical advice. See also is beekeeping legal where I live?
Source: Mayo Clinic, Bee stings: Symptoms and causes (page dated Oct 24, 2024); MAAREC, Beekeeping equipment. Checked Oct 26, 2026.