Based on my experience, non-allergic reactions to bee venom follow a bell curve. Starting off minor, growing more and more intense, and then tapering off to nothingness. I was worried at first, thinking I was 'allergic'. After reading on this concept (cant remember the book title, but will provide if asked), I discovered the concept of the bell curve reaction to venom.
Thankfully I'm on the downward slope of the bell curve. However, that was in the fall when I was being stung often (sometimes purposefully in the honey house, trying to speed past the top of the bell curve). Just so you know, I went from minor swelling/itching at sting site; to whole body itching and hives (red rash circles all over), to even swelling in areas not associated w/ the sting (i.e. stung on arm, 10 minutes later neck swelling and tightness).
This concept should be the same for all. For those w/ little reaction through-out their beekeeping history, their curve may be small and/or gentle. Apparently, my curve was tall and steep!!
As you can imagine this worried me until I read on the concept of the bell curve. However, based on this concept, it can be expected that, after periods (length, probably based on the individual) of no stings, increased reactions to re-occur.
I learned quick the value of benedryl, and would administer if my reactions were becoming agressive. Afterwhich, 100% of the time, what ever reaction was happening would minimize.
I consider my reactions non-allergic. Never had problems w/ breathing or getting oxygen. However, the neck swelling thang did get my attention. benadryl = good!