Allergies (February 26, 2011)
For many people Spring and Summer are
seasons for allergies. Allergies, or allergic rhinitis, are due to an
over-reactivity of the immune system to certain allergens. During Spring
and Summer, allergies are generally induced by wind-born tree, grass,
or weed pollen, and can cause such symptoms as: sneezing; nasal
congestion; runny nose; watery, itchy, or red eyes; headaches; fatigue;
and sometimes coughing and wheezing. When allergens and antibodies react
in individuals with allergic rhinitis, their nasal mucosa becomes
swollen and may obstruct drainage from the sinuses causing sinusitis in
many people. Thus, sinus infections are a frequent complication and
consequence of allergic rhinitis.
While
Spring and Summer are the seasons of the year that bring us outdoors,
many people are unable to enjoy these warmer months due to uncomfortable
symptoms. Chinese medicine can help bring relief of symptoms, correct
imbalances of the immune system, prevent the occurrence of infection,
and allow healing of tissues of the sinuses.
From
a Chinese point of view, allergic rhinitis is due to a deficiency of
the Lung and Kidney's Defensive-Qi systems, combined with retention of
chronic "Wind" in the nose.
Allergic
rhinitis often starts in early childhood, with a constitutional
weakness, but it may also start later in life, with a progressive
decline of Kidney-Qi. Lung and Kidney Qi Deficiency is the root of the
problem, therefore, with herbal medicine and acupuncture we strengthen
and nourish these organs. The manifestation of the disease is Wind
invading the Lung channel in the nose. This accounts for the acute
attacks. With herbs and acupuncture, we clear the Wind, reduce
congestion, and open the nasal passages. It is necessary to treat both
the root and the manifestation in order to produce lasting results. The
Western treatment of allergic rhinitis relies mostly on the use of
antihistamine agents. Unfortunately, antihistamines only treat the
manifestations of the disease and not the root. In addition, they cause
side-effects such as dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, nervousness, dryness,
and gastro-intestinal disturbance.
Chinese
medicine offers allergy sufferers a way to strengthen their bodies and
significantly reduce their symptoms, without unpleasant side effects.
You do not have to spend another season living with allergies.
For other information, please go to Hayfever Expert.
This site is dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, preventing, and
lifestyle changes that can be made for those of you with allergies.
