In a large chunk of the US, the ground is frozen over, and airborne allergies aren’t a worry. In Phoenix, however, we’re getting into our major growing season, and everything is flying through the air. That may mean that you’re sneezing a lot more than normal these days. You keep tissues in the car, the office, and every room of your house, but you haven’t worn your contacts in weeks, and your eyes just won’t stop itching … Yep, you are suffering from airborne allergies. When nothing seems to work and you’re ready to head to the allergist for monthly shots, there’s one alternative that may be worth considering: acupuncture.
What Triggers Airborne Allergies
Most of us are allergic to something, and when that happens to be pollen, dust, grass, and other regular outdoor occurrences, it can make life that much more challenging. People who aren’t allergic still are exposed to airborne allergens; however, when they are, their bodies just process allergens and pass them through their systems. Those with more sensitive mucus membranes begin to release histamines to fight off the allergens, leading to the familiar symptoms of itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, and couching.
Common Treatments for Airborne Allergies
Since the body is busy producing histamines to fight off the allergens, the most popular — and logical — choice is a regimen of antihistamines. These are readily available over the counter as well as by prescription, and while they do take a little bit of time to kick in, they can be extremely effective in eliminating the effect of airborne allergies. Of course, as with any drugs, side effects are possible.
If your allergies are really out of control, an allergist may prescribe shots, which consist of a bit of the allergen mixed with salt water. This combination, given over time, leads to desensitization of the system to the allergens. You must visit the allergist to get these shots, so you’ll be heading to the office monthly or quarterly, depending on the doctor’s treatment diagnosis.
Natural Approaches to Combat Airborne Allergies
If you have allergies, you have probably been introduced to the Neti Pot. This is a nasal rinse that clears out the mucus passages. Once or twice daily, you run saline solution through each side of the nose. Natural and drug-free, nasal rinses have been a tried-and-true method for dealing with allergies for many sufferers. You do need to be consistent with this and it will take a few days to realize the full effects, but it works for many.
Some people who battle pollen allergies swear by local honey as a natural remedy. The theory is that the local honey will carry local pollens and have a desensitization effect, in the same way allergy shots do.
Using Acupuncture to Combat Airborne Allergies
If you have opted away from medical interventions to deal with your allergies, and you prefer a more natural approach, you may want to consider including acupuncture in your treatment. Research studies have shown that patients who receive acupuncture have realized a decrease in symptoms as well as the ability to cut back on or eliminate their antihistamine drugs.
How does acupuncture work? Well, by regulating circulation with acupuncture, the body is better armed to control itself and find balance. In addition, the small needles used in acupuncture boost and control the body’s immune system. Since allergens cause the body to react and produce antihistamines, acupuncture can have a positive effect on bringing the whole system back to normal.
Curious how acupuncture and other natural remedies can help you combat airborne allergies this season? Contact your Phoenix acupuncturist, Harmony and Health Acupuncture, at 602-955-5444 to schedule your appointment now. We’ll help you put away the tissues for good!
