Husband Collapses After Bee Acupuncture – Urgent Safety Concerns Raised

Seoul, South Korea – A South Korean man is recovering after suffering a severe anaphylactic reaction following a bee acupuncture treatment, sparking renewed debate over the safety and regulation of this alternative therapy. The incident, detailed by his wife, Ms. A, on social media, highlights potential gaps in emergency preparedness at some oriental medical clinics and raises critical questions about patient safety.

What Happened? A Harrowing Account

According to Ms. A’s account, her husband, Mr. B, received bee acupuncture at C Oriental Medical Clinic on the afternoon of the 20th. Shortly after the treatment, while in the process of paying, Mr. B reported experiencing a strange taste and swelling lips. The clinic nurse, Ms. A alleges, simply advised him to “ask for medicine related to anaphylactic shock.” Before he could receive assistance, Mr. B lost consciousness due to difficulty breathing and required emergency medical attention.

“It was terrifying,” Ms. A shared on her SNS post, which quickly gained traction. “There have been cases of people dying from this. We were told the epinephrine was expired and unavailable. My husband almost died because he wasn’t given the immediate care he needed.” Paramedics who responded to the emergency confirmed the clinic’s expired epinephrine supply.

The Core Concerns: Lack of Allergy Testing & Emergency Protocols

Ms. A’s primary concerns center around three key issues: the absence of an allergy test prior to the bee acupuncture treatment, the lack of readily available emergency medication, and the delayed response to her husband’s reported symptoms. Anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction, requires immediate administration of epinephrine. The delay in this case, she argues, nearly cost her husband his life.

Bee acupuncture, also known as apitherapy, involves the injection of bee venom into specific acupuncture points. While proponents claim benefits for conditions like arthritis and chronic pain, it carries inherent risks, particularly for individuals with bee sting allergies. Proper screening and immediate access to emergency treatment are paramount.

A Long-Standing Conflict: Korean Medical Association vs. Oriental Medicine Association

This incident isn’t isolated. The safety of bee acupuncture has been a point of contention between the Korean Medical Association (KMA) and the Korean Medical Association (OMA) for years. Following a patient death in 2018 linked to bee acupuncture, the KMA called for mandatory safety verification for all herbal acupuncture practices, including bee venom therapy. They argued that these treatments are not classified as medicines and therefore lack rigorous safety and efficacy testing.

The KMA issued a statement at the time, emphasizing the potential dangers and demanding increased oversight from the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. The OMA responded by filing a defamation lawsuit against several KMA executives, a case that underscores the deep-seated tensions between the two organizations.

Understanding Bee Acupuncture: Risks and Benefits

Bee acupuncture’s purported benefits stem from the anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties of bee venom. However, the risks are significant. Beyond anaphylaxis, potential side effects include localized pain, swelling, and infection. Individuals with allergies to bee stings, those taking certain medications, and people with specific medical conditions should avoid bee acupuncture altogether.

Important Considerations Before Considering Bee Acupuncture:

• Allergy Testing: A thorough allergy test is crucial before undergoing treatment.
• Clinic Credentials: Ensure the clinic is properly licensed and staffed with qualified practitioners.
• Emergency Preparedness: Verify the clinic has epinephrine readily available and staff trained in its administration.
• Informed Consent: Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before proceeding.

The Future of Bee Acupuncture Regulation

This latest incident is likely to reignite the debate over the regulation of bee acupuncture in South Korea. Calls for stricter oversight, mandatory allergy testing, and standardized emergency protocols are expected to grow. The Ministry of Health and Welfare may face increased pressure to address the safety concerns and protect patients seeking alternative therapies. As awareness grows and more information becomes available, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare options, prioritizing safety and well-being. This story serves as a critical reminder of the importance of vigilance and proactive safety measures in all medical procedures, both conventional and alternative.