From immediate swelling around the sting site and the development of itchy hives to difficulty breathing and a deadly closure of your airway, it is easy to see how allergic reactions to a bee sting can be frightening. Unfortunately, many people do not realize they are allergic to bee stings until it is too late. You can find out if you're allergic by visiting a site like http://www.oakbrookallergists.com to find allergy testing services. While surprising to hear, an estimated 40 deaths from bee sting allergies occur each year in America, so avoiding bees is imperative if you are allergic. Using these tips, you can avoid common bee locations and reduce your risk of a sting and allergic reaction.

Outdoor Behavior

Many people with allergies to bee stings avoid the outdoors as much as possible. While complete avoidance can reduce your risk of contact to bees, you should not have to sacrifice your outdoor enjoyment.

When you go outside to cook out, relax, or work in the yard, use the following tips to stay out the a bee's "bees"-ness:

• Wear Real Shoes – You may be tempted to wear flip flops or sandals outdoors, but consider wearing only shoes that enclose your entire foot. This will protect your feet, toes, and ankle from bee stings.
• Watch What you Wear – Wearing long pants and shirts with sleeves may seem impossible in the warmer seasons, but it can offer extra protection against bee stings. Also, avoid wearing clothes with bright colors, which can attract bees.
• Reduce the Fragrance – Do not use perfume or cologne before going outdoors. In addition, avoid washing your clothes in scented detergents. Bees and other insects are attracted to these stronger fragrances, so avoid them to reduce your risk of bee stings.
• Prepare for the Worst – If you already know you are allergic to bee stings, make sure to carry your epinephrine pen with you at all times. Or, store one in a safe location outside your home in case you are stung.

When Bees Do Arrive

Even with proper precaution, you may still get in and around a bee's "bees"-ness. If you notice one or more bees swarming around you, remain as calm as possible. Swatting away bees can make them become more aggressive, releasing a pheromone that alarms other bees. This pheromone will not only increase a bee's desire to attach and sting you, but will also result in a swarm of bees wanting to attack.

Instead of swatting away the bees, run away quickly and find shelter. Be sure to cover your face while running, but do not block your vision. Do not jump in a body of water, even though many people believe this is a safe place to cover from a swarm of bees. Most bees will just hover over the water's surface, waiting for you to come up for air.

An allergic reaction to a bee sting can be deadly, so taking precaution is essential. Using these tips, you can avoid bee stings by staying out of their "bees"-ness.