Is Your Child Allergic To Bee Stings? Proactive Advice To Help Prevent A Health Emergency

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Bee sting allergies are a serious threat to the health and safety of children. Unfortunately, parents may not realize their child is allergic to bee stings until they actually receive a sting and begin to exhibit frightening symptoms, such as hives, swelling, or difficulty in breathing.

Since many stings take place near the home or on outings to parks and recreation areas, parents can reduce the chances of their child receiving a bee sting by following a few proactive tips. 

Keep home play areas safe 

Outdoor activity is a healthy part of growing up for most children, but it is up to parent's to make sure these areas are as safe as possible, especially when concerned with potential bee sting allergies. To accomplish this, parents should:

  • Inspect play yards and outdoor living areas for signs of stinging insect infestations and nests
  • Remove standing water, such as pet dishes and bird baths
  • Remove any items that are known to draw the attention stinging insects, such as sweet liquids in discarded cans, food residues, and dropped fruit from trees in the area
  • Keep garbage cans tightly closed and stored well away from play areas
  • Avoid allowing the child to have foods or drinks outdoors that are known to attract insects, such as jelly, fruits, sweets, and sweetened drinks

In addition, to taking these precautions, parents should remember to always accompany young children while using these areas. 

Dress for protection

Many insects, including stinging varieties, are attracted to bright colors and patterns. This is believed to be because of their similarity to brightly colored plants and flowers that these insects routinely feed upon.

Parents who want to help their child avoid contact with bees and stinging insects while playing outdoors should consider dressing their child in less colorful clothing, such as whites, tans, and khakis, and opt for plain patterns. Doing this will serve the double purpose of discouraging bee interest and making it easier for observing parents to detect insects that may have lit on their child. 

While these tips are important ways to help your child enjoy the outdoors with more safety, protecting your child will be easier if you have clear information about any allergies they may have.

To do this, speak with your child's medical care provider soon and request a bee sting allergy test. If your child is found to have a significant bee sting allergy, your medical provider can help you make sure that you are equipped for the possibility of a bee sting event. 

To learn more about allergy testing, visit a website like http://www.oakbrookallergists.com


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