What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing reactions after a bee sting or if you work or spend time outdoors where bee exposure is common. It checks whether your immune system has developed a specific sensitivity to honey bee venom. This helps you understand if bee stings could trigger an allergic reaction for you in the future.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with the honey bee IgE value explained alongside its normal range so you know exactly what your number means. If your result is elevated, a practical next step is to avoid known bee exposure when possible and consider carrying appropriate emergency medication if you've had reactions before. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and if you retest in the future, our trends feature lets you track changes in your sensitization level over time.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone who has had a swelling, hives, or breathing trouble after a bee sting should consider this test. It's also useful for people who work outdoors, garden frequently, or keep bees and want to know their risk ahead of time. Parents of children with reactions to stings may also find this test helpful for peace of mind.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include swelling that spreads beyond the sting site, hives or itching across the body, dizziness, or trouble breathing after a bee sting. Some people also notice throat tightness or stomach upset shortly after a sting. If you've had any of these reactions, this test can help clarify whether bee venom sensitization is the cause.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed. Once ready, you'll be able to view and download them directly from your account. You'll get a notification so you know exactly when your report is available.

What is IgE sensitization and why does it matter?

IgE is an antibody your immune system makes when it identifies something, like bee venom, as a threat. Having specific IgE to honey bee venom means your body is primed to react if you're stung again. This matters because it helps explain past reactions and can guide how cautious you should be around bees going forward.

What does a high result mean?

A high or positive result means your immune system has produced antibodies against honey bee venom, indicating sensitization. This doesn't automatically mean you'll have a severe reaction every time, but it does raise your risk for allergic symptoms upon future stings. Simple steps include avoiding bee-heavy areas when possible, wearing protective clothing outdoors, and discussing emergency preparedness options if you've had serious reactions before.

What causes a positive honey bee IgE result?

A positive result usually comes from previous exposure to bee stings or venom, which triggers your immune system to build specific antibodies. Some people become sensitized after just one sting, while others develop it after repeated exposures. Environmental factors, such as living near bee colonies or working outdoors, can also increase the chances of sensitization.

How often should I retest?

If your lifestyle or exposure to bees changes, such as starting beekeeping or moving to a rural area, retesting every couple of years can help you stay informed. If you've had a reaction and are monitoring your sensitization, your results report will explain typical retest timing based on your value. Tracking your results over time using the trends feature can help you see if your sensitization is increasing or decreasing.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your result comes back positive, take practical precautions like avoiding known bee habitats and wearing long sleeves or pants outdoors during peak bee season. If you've had a severe reaction in the past, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the throat, seek medical care immediately if stung again. Keeping an emergency action plan and any prescribed emergency medication on hand is a smart step for those with confirmed sensitization.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Honey Bee Allergy Test - IgE Sting Reaction Check

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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