https://philaacupuncture.com/natural-treatment-for-allergies/
Treatment for allergies is always a challenge. Although allergens can differ from one person to the next, the physical reactions are often the same. Allergic reactions happen when the body’s immune system releases antibodies called immunoglobulin, which secrete histamines that cause the symptoms. It is the body’s way to get rid of the allergens which it considers invaders. In this article, we’ll discuss different approaches to the treatment for allergies, both traditional western and alternative.
Medications for allergy.
Depending on your allergy, medications for allergies can help reduce your immune system reaction and ease symptoms. Patients are often treated with antihistamines, nasal sprays, and decongestants. However, there are some adverse side effects observed with some patients who take these medications. Some of the most common side effects from the use of medications for allergies observed are sleepiness, headaches, blurred vision, dryness in the throat, mouth, nose, and eyes, upset stomach, dizziness, nausea, and constipation.
Oftentimes, the side effects from the use of medications for allergies happen because of overdosing or taking the medicines with other medications prescribed for other diseases. Nasal sprays, for example often provide immediate relief, with their albuterol and beta-based content, which relieves difficulty in breathing. However, a patient can also suffer from the side effects mentioned, if nasal sprays are used too frequently.
Doctors may also prescribe corticosteroids, to lessen inflammation in the bronchial area. However, some people may also have reactions to it such as blurry vision, abdominal pains, swelling of eyelids, stuffy noses, acne or skin rash, and muscle cramps, and general fatigue. In other instances, the use of medications with corticosteroids for a long time may also lead to weight gain and liquid retention. Cataracts may also develop as well as high blood sugar which can lead to diabetes.
Allergies are one of the leading causes of diseases in the USA. The annual amount spent on allergies in the USA is $18 billion. Allergies could get complicated and even ruin a person’s life. Allergies generally mean over reaction or hyper sensitivity to a certain substance or product. The substance could make a person sneeze, wheeze or create rashes, etc.
What is an allergy?
Allergy is a particular immune response or reaction to a certain substance that is not harmful in itself but brings a discomforting reaction. Substances such as foods, pet dander, and pollen from plants can trigger an allergic reaction in people with immune deficiencies. A Certain change in some immune deficiency disease is likely to increase the chance of someone having allergies. An allergy is a form of irritation eliciting chemical reactions caused by an agent to a host. In common language, this refers to a form of chemical reaction of the body as a response to a foreign chemical or an environmental condition.
The agent that causes the irritation or reaction to the body is called an allergen. Allergens take on many forms. This means that there are many forms of allergies. The reaction that the human body produces is called an allergic reaction.
Causes of allergies
Allergy is a particular immune response or reaction to a certain substance that is not harmful in itself but brings a discomforting reaction. Substances such as foods, pet dander, and pollen from plants can trigger an allergic reaction in people with immune deficiencies. A Certain change in some immune deficiency disease is likely to increase the chance of someone having allergies allergens the body’s immune system triggers. Triggers could be things such as dust, tree pollen, foods, weeds, drugs, food, insect venom, mold, pet, and many other materials. When the immune systems sense the peculiar trigger, the body releases histamine.
An environmental condition such as a change in temperature and sunlight can also be a trigger. Touch as rubbing the skin roughly can also trigger an Allergy.
Although the reasons why allergies develop aren’t known, some substances commonly cause an allergic reaction. People who have allergies are typically allergic to one or more of the following:
- Pet dander
- Bee stings or bites from other insects
- Certain foods, including nuts or shellfish
- Certain medications, such as penicillin or aspirin
- Certain plants
- Pollen or molds
Symptoms of allergic reaction
At one time or another, almost everyone has experienced some type of allergic reaction. The most common symptoms of allergic reaction occur when confronted with seasonal allergens such as pollen or ragweed, and may cause itchiness, a runny nose, and sneezing. Although these symptoms of allergic reaction can be easy to control and cause no real serious health effects.
However, those suffering more severe allergic reactions (often in the case of food allergies), may experience congestion or even difficulty breathing. In rare instances, a constriction of the airways can even cause death. That’s why understanding your allergies and treating them properly is so important to stay healthy and symptom-free.
Most allergies are categorized into three types of reactions; mild, moderate, and severe.
Most allergies are categorized into three types of reactions; mild, moderate, and severe.
Mild allergic reactions are usually caused by airborne allergens such as pollen, pet dander, mites, or even dust and can often be treated with over-the-counter medications as well as prescription drugs.
Mild allergic reactions remain in the affected area, not spreading to other parts of the body, and may include:
- Rash.
- Itchy, or watery eyes.
- Congestion.
Moderate allergic reactions can spread to other parts of the body and may include such symptoms as:
- Itchiness.
- Difficulty breathing.
A Severe Allergic Reaction is also known as Anaphylaxis, can be life-threatening. Anaphylaxis is rare but serious. It is a life-threatening emergency in which the body’s response to the allergen comes on suddenly (without much if any warning), and can affect the entire body and how it works. Anaphylaxis often begins with sudden itching of the eyes or face. Within minutes it may progress to more serious symptoms, which may include:
- Varying degrees of swellings can make breathing and swallow difficult.
- Abdominal pain.
- Cramps.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Mental confusion or dizziness.
There are few different types of allergic reactions
Allergies often lead to sneezing, runny nose, or watery eyes. Although these are symptoms of some types of allergic diseases, it is important to understand that an allergic reaction is actually the result of a chain reaction that begins in your genes and is expressed by your immune system.
What occurs in your organism when you suffer from an allergic reaction? Read on to find out.
Allergic Rhinitis (Hay fever)
Hay fever caused by inhalation of certain allergen peculiar to a person. The symptoms of allergic rhinitis include a runny nose, sneezing, stuffy and itching nose. The person may also have red and itchy eyes that are watery, and the severity varies from person to person and also depends on the season. Hay fever can grow worse to become rhinosinusitis can breed infection.
Managing hay fever include taking the following steps
– Staying away from allergens such as mold, pet dander, and dust mites
– Avoid smoke and strong odors
– Taking Allergy shots (immunotherapy)
– Taking oral non-sedating antihistamines
– Use of nasal steroids with severe nasal congestion
Allergic Asthma
Asthma is a chronic allergic condition that affects the lungs, making breathing difficult. Such a person may experience the following symptoms of allergic asthma
- chest tightness,
- coughing, and
- wheezing
and these symptoms of allergic asthma usually triggered by certain allergens such as tree pollen or mold. Temperature change, smoke, and strong odor can also trigger the condition. The management of asthma is a continuous one.
Treatment includes taking Albuterol which helps to dilate airways for relief. Also, inhalation of steroids administered at varying intervals depending on the severity of the condition.
Food Allergies
Food allergies occur due to an individual response by the immune system to a particular food. The person reacts to taking particular food minutes or hours after eating such. Reactions could include the following symptoms of food allergy
- vomiting,
- diarrhea, and
- hives similar to mosquito bites,
- abdominal cramping,
- flushing, and
- itching of the skin.
Other severe symptoms of food allergy could be:
- difficulties in breathing,
- throat closure,
- a decrease in blood pressure and
- such a person can lose unconscious.
Of course, the best treatment for food allergies is to avoid such foods that trigger the symptoms of food allergy.
Food Intolerances
Food intolerance is a little different from food allergies because it does not involve the immune system and not life-threatening. Food intolerance symptoms are polymorphic and specific to each kind of food. For example, someone with lactose intolerance will experience abdominal cramping and diarrhea because of an inability to break down milk sugar.
Eczema
Atopic dermatitis commonly called Eczema is a chronic skin inflammation that can be triggered by food or environmental allergens. Eczema is activated when there is a breakdown in the skin barrier and the immune system leading to the reaction such as itching skin. Thus, the most common symptoms of atopic dermatitis are itch, burning, redness, etc. The skin barrier maintains the flow of water under the skin and prevents bacteria and allergens. When there is a breakdown of this barrier, Allergy can set in.
Treating this condition involves returning the skin barrier to the proper shape, and this is done by frequent bathing to keep skin moisture. Topical steroids and other drugs can also prevent the immune response in a standard form. As a result of the use of topical creams along with steroids the symptoms of eczema usually diminish for a short while and then flaring up again.
Drug Allergies and Intolerances
The development of drug allergy symptoms is more prominent in people with immune deficiencies. Due to their exposure to lots of drugs, patients become more susceptible to drug allergies. Not all drug reaction makes a person allergic to drugs.
Stinging Insect Allergy
It is normal to have swelling and redness on the spot where there is an insect bite. Individuals with an Allergy to stinging insect venom do experience more severe reactions than this such as anaphylaxis. The most common stinging insects are bees. Symptoms of bee sting allergic reactions can include hives, itching, blisters, skin rashes, or skin peeling.
Medication such as epinephrine can be administered to treat anaphylaxis, and this has to be done on time.
Identifying which allergens you react to and avoiding such can go a long way to prevent the discomfort and risk Allergy can cause.
Natural treatment for allergies
With all the possible side effects that a person can get from frequent use of anti-histamines, anti-inflammatory drugs, and nasal sprays that are often prescribed for allergy relief, it is no wonder that people are looking for the natural treatment for allergies. Keeping yourself informed on the pollen level of the area where you live will also help you avoid exposure to pollen, which may trigger allergies.
A change in diet and lifestyle can work wonders for allergy relief. Increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables that are rich in natural vitamins can increase your body’s resistance to allergies, without necessarily taking anti-allergy medications. Avoiding foods that you know will trigger your allergies is also a practical solution. Using dehumidifiers and air filters can also clear your environment of allergy-producing substances such as pollen, dust, mold, and mildew.
Listed below are different approaches to natural treatment for allergies
Home remedies for allergies – most common natural treatment for allergies
Home remedies for allergies are natural remedies for allergies that have been proven to be effective. For individuals that need to get rid of allergies below are some home remedies for allergies that can cure allergies properly.
Use nasal irrigation
- If you are not familiar with nasal irrigation, consult with your doctor about it. It is usually used to help your sinus problem by using salt and water. Many doctors believe that this method is very effective to treat your allergy symptoms. You can get the nasal irrigation device very easily from the retailer store.
Avoid smoking
- Smoking is really dangerous for those of you who have allergies because it can clog your nasal system. As the result, you won’t be able to breathe easily. Many research shows that smoking is very bad for your health because it can stimulate the growth of cancer cells in your body. You should stop smoking now if you want to get your healthy life.
Other home remedies for allergies that have been effective are:
- Maintain clean beddings and pillowcases.
- Do not take too much alcohol and nicotine.
- Take Vitamin C supplement and Vitamin C rich foods. According to research, such vitamin is known to help you become more immune to allergens.
- You can take mashed almond leaves to lessen the impact of allergens on you.
- Mix 1/2 fresh lime into a glass of water at room temperature plus a teaspoon of honey. You can drink such a solution every morning to help you protect yourself from allergens.
Herbs for allergy – effective home-based natural treatment for allergies
Herbs for allergy represent the category of the natural remedies for allergies that have been proven to be effective without any side effects. Many Chinese herbs for allergies proved their effectiveness.
Listed below are the most popular Herbs for allergy:
Licorice:
- It’s among the best herbs for allergies that help to eliminate asthma. It’s also possible to make use of this herb to stop chest blockage and cough. The anti-inflammatory materials inside the root of licorice work as the most effective remedy for allergies such as hay fever and conjunctivitis
Nettle:
- This herb for allergy helps you to eliminate hay fever. The root extracts of nettle increase the creation of T-cells within your body.
Eucalyptus:
- The oil obtained through eucalyptus can assist you to eradicate chest blockage. Eucalyptus, any time used in steam inhalation, can also help one to get rid of nasal blockage.
Chamomile:
- This herb for allergy is well known for its anti-inflammatory qualities. This specific herb, when consumed in the form of tea, functions as one of the best herbs for allergies.
Homeopathy for allergy – #1 natural treatment for allergies
Homeopathy for allergy is a natural treatment for allergy that is used to cure allergies and their symptoms effectively.
Homeopathy for allergy aims to treat the root cause which causes these allergies. Homeopathy thus focuses to treat the hypersensitivity of the body to the particular allergen which causes the allergic symptoms.
Listed below are the most commonly used homeopathic remedies for allergy
Natrum Muriaticum
- This homeopathic remedy for allergy is one of the most effective homeopathic remedies for allergy, this medicine helps individual to get over nasal congestion.
Euphrasia,
- This homeopathic remedy for allergy is perfect for the symptoms of allergies such as swollen eyes, coughing, burning tears, and watery nasal discharge.
Poison Nut:
- Better known as Nux Vomica, this homeopathic remedy for allergy functions best in healing allergies which include the runny and tickling nose.
Allium Cepa
- This is an effective homeopathic remedy for allergy that enables patients’ immune system to eradicate symptoms of allergies including consistent sneezing, frontal headaches, continual urge to rub eyes, burning eyes as well as nasal discharge.
Acupuncture for allergies – ancient Chinese natural treatment for allergies
Acupuncture is an ancient healing art that has been practiced for more than 3,000 years. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners have used acupuncture for thousands of years as a natural healing process to balance yin and yang in the body. Acupuncture is a natural method of treating an illness and involves stimulating and balancing Qi through points, called acupoints, located throughout the body.
Acupuncture for allergy works to resolve allergies by decreasing the body’s overreaction to an allergen, strengthening the immune system, and helping to normalize overall body function by balancing the body’s Qi. Acupuncture for allergy can help resolve allergy issues by removing energy imbalances and blockages in the body.
Allergies often lead to sneezing, runny nose, or watery eyes. Although these are symptoms of some types of allergic diseases, it is important to understand that an allergic reaction is actually the result of a chain reaction that begins in your genes and is expressed by your immune system.
One scientific research performed by German scientists published by the Annals of Internal Medicine examined two groups of participants: allergy sufferers who sought relief with acupuncture, and those who took antihistamines to treat allergy symptoms. After two months, those who received acupuncture reported less need for medications to treat allergies, as well as an overall improvement in the quality of life compared to other controls. Although the results are mixed, the measurable evidence suggests that acupuncture is an effective means of alleviating allergies as a way of reducing the need for allergy medications.
Regular acupuncture treatments can naturally relieve allergy symptoms such as:
- runny nose
- Itchy eyes
- Scratching throat
- Inflammation
- Puffy eyes
- Eczema
Since acupuncture aims to improve immunity by circulating the body’s energy, allergy treatment focuses on the front of the body. By stimulating defensive qi in this area, the body can naturally strengthen the immune system and act to reduce the onset of allergic reactions.
Natural treatment for allergies in Philadelphia
Philadelphia Acupuncture Clinic is the leading acupuncture treatment center in Pennsylvania. Our licensed practitioners led by Victor Tsan, MD provide traditional acupuncture treatment for a variety of medical ailments including allergy. Victor Tsan, an internationally recognized physician-homeopath combines acupuncture with homeopathic treatment to achieve the best healing effectiveness. Philadelphia Acupuncture Clinic rated one of the three best in the city.
To schedule your appointment for initial evaluation and natural treatment for allergies contact us at 267-403-3085 or use our online booking application.
Comments
Post a Comment