Suddenly Allergic?

[MudSongs]

Does anyone here have experience with developing an allergy to honey bee stings? or just becoming suddenly allergic to everything?

I'm curious because I recently had an allergic reaction to something, I'm not sure what, but I was itching from head to toe, scratched skin instantly became inflamed, eyelids swelled up -- all kinds of fun stuff.  It subsided after a few days and I've been taking Benadryl (diphenhydramine) once or twice a day since just to keep the itch under control.

This allergic reaction might not be related to my bees.  I get stung more often than I care to admit, even in the winter, so I thought I'd have a fairly strong immunity built up by now.

Like I said, it might not have anything to do with bees, but I know beekeepers and family members of beekeepers can develop severe allergies under certain circumstances.  I'm trying to figure out if I'm a candidate, if there are specific conditions that make allergic reactions more likely to happen.

[Bakersdozen]

Mud,
Allergic reactions to bee stings can occur at any time to even the most seasoned beekeeper.  There are varying reactions from no reaction to aphalactic  shock.  Riverbee is a resident "expert" on suddenly becoming severely allergic to bee stings.  Let's hope she chimes in on this thread. 
I understand that family members can become allergic even though they are never near a hive.
Last fall I had an allergic reaction to something non-bee related.  Long story short...I was exposed to something in the garage and was unable to ventilate the garage while I was working.  Rash, hives, etc. for weeks.
All I think to offer is to drink lots of water and try to detox.  Good luck.

[Perry]

If all else fails, a trip to the Doc and perhaps some tests just to be sure.

[MudSongs]

I saw a doctor.  He said it could be an allergic reaction to anything.  Sometimes people have flare ups and then it clears up after a few weeks or a few months.  He told me to keep taking Benadryl and go to a hospital if I can't breathe.

I haven't been stung by a bee since I had the allergic reaction (to whatever).  I'm curious to see what happens the next time I get stung.

I always have an Epipen nearby.  The next month or two should be interesting.

- Phillip

[Bakersdozen]

Good to hear you saw a doctor.  In addition to the epipen, perhaps you should have someone with you work your hives.  At least let someone know where you are at the first few trips to the apiary.

[riverbee]

phillip,

our immune system is so complex.  without getting technical, the antibodies work to fight off infection and sometimes the antibodies 'get confused'. either way a reaction of some sort occurs.  it is good you sought medical attention.  if you are concerned about a reaction to being stung, i would get tested for it.  (allergist or immunolgist).

here is an article on allergic reactions and how allergies work:
How Allergies Work

this is a post on allergic reactions to stings:
Riverbee's Journey; Allergy to Insect Stings-Reactions

i am allergic not only to honey bee stings, but to wasps, yellow jackets and hornets. i have been through immunotherapy injections.
Riverbee's Journey

any life threatening reaction to a sting will occur within minutes of being stung.

hopefully you had a reaction to something that may resolve itself. keep us posted!