Spring Season = Allergy Season

04/01/2008

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. However, in Southern California it seems allergies are year round. 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. Acupuncture and herbs have helped many allergy sufferers. Allergies are seen as acute attacks with an underlying deficiency in Chinese medicine. The root cause is always addressed when treating someone with allergies and therefore can provide long lasting results. Many people have relief for months to years without a reoccurrence.

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 a comprehensive approach to the treatment of allergies. Don’t spend another allergy season with your Kleenex box and nasal sprays.