Acupuncture for Allergies
Acupuncture for Allergies
Did you know that acupuncture is a good support for folks with allergies? Spring is here, and with it many folks experience worse allergy symptoms. Itchy nose, stuffy nose, and sneezing are all symptoms of allergic rhinitis (basically, allergic inflammation of the nasal passages). In 2012, 30.2% of Americans reported allergy-related nasal symptoms in the last twelve months. In other words, if you suffer with nasal symptoms due to allergies, you are not alone!
Seasonal allergy sufferers in particular may struggle to balance the desire to get outdoors with the need to reduce allergy symptoms. It's important to learn more about your personal allergies so you can take action to reduce your symptoms and (hopefully) get back to the things you love!
Allopathic Medicine and Allergies
It’s important to get proper diagnosis from an allopathic doctor such as an allergy specialist if you suspect you have allergies. An allergist will be able to conduct tests to determine the cause of your allergies so you can take extra steps to reduce your exposure to the allergen(s) that are triggering your symptoms. An allergist can also recommend or prescribe medications and other interventions to help with your nasal allergy symptoms.
Acupuncture and Allergies
Acupuncture can be a great way to support those suffering with nasal allergies. A randomised-controlled trial compared real acupuncture (3 times per week) versus “sham” acupuncture (also 3 times per week, but needling points that are not on acupuncture channels) versus a waitlist group that received no intervention. After 4 weeks of treatment, and 4 weeks after the end of treatment, those receiving real acupuncture showed significant improvement in nasal symptoms and quality of life compared to those receiving “sham” acupuncture or no treatment. The researchers concluded that acupuncture could be an effective and safe way to control nasal allergy symptoms.
There are many acupuncture points in our tool-box, as well as non-needle interventions, to help folks suffering with nasal allergy symptoms. I work with each person individually to determine the best way to support them. Traditional Chinese medicine has its own system of diagnostics! Depending on what I find, I will approach your case accordingly. Acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, gua sha, and acupressure each can be a valuable way to address Chinese medicine diagnoses related to nasal allergies.
If you’re struggling with allergies and you’ve already gotten attention from an allergist, consider adding Traditional Chinese Medicine to the mix to help with controlling symptoms! Schedule your appointment today!
If you are experiencing a severe allergic reaction (such as trouble breathing, swollen tongue, itching inside your ears, trouble swallowing, rash on your face, neck, chest, or upper back) call 911!
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