For an allergic patient, there are a number of ways to prevent future insect stings. Suggestions include:
- Avoid using perfumes, scented soaps, and other sweet or pungent body products.
- Avoid wearing bright colors that might attract bees.
- Stay away from blooming flowers when you are out-doors.
- Avoid eating sweet foods while your are outdoors.
- Consider wearing protective clothing when outdoors, including long-sleeved shirts, gloves, and hats.
- Wear shoes when walking outside.
- When driving, keep your windows rolled up.
- Have a professional inspection performed, and remove bee hives or other sources of stinging insects near your home.
- Always be prepared for the possibility of a future sting by carrying emergency epinephrine with you.
- Purchase a medical identification bracelet (Medic-Alert) that identifies you as having an insect sting allergy. This identification is extremely important in the event that you have a serious reaction and can-not communicate.
- Discuss with your doctor the possibility of starting allergy shot therapy to reduce your hypersensitivity to stinging insects.