Acupuncture for Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergy, commonly known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction that occurs just for a specific period of time in the year. This allergy usually rears its head in spring or fall when pollen is spread all over by the wind. People who are sensitive to pollen can develop a seasonal allergy any time in their lives. However, it has been observed most sensitive people get seasonal allergies when they are in their preteens. Both males and females can develop this allergic reaction, and it is more prevalent in individuals who have a family history of seasonal allergies.
Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
Typically, symptoms manifest within 5 to 10 minutes of getting exposed to the allergen. Symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Wheezing
- Dry, unproductive cough
- Stuffy nose
- Inflamed sinuses
- Itchy, watery eyes that are red
- Headaches
- Runny nose
- Diminished sense of taste and smell
- Disturbed sleep
When people complain of these symptoms, conventional doctors prescribe antihistamines to ease the symptoms. However, many people do not get relief from this method of treatment. If you are one such person, you will be relieved to hear you can turn to acupuncture for seasonal allergies and get immediate respite from your symptoms.
Using Acupuncture for Seasonal Allergies
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicinal practice that is used to treat a wide range of health issues. This practice believes when the flow of life energy, or qui, is disrupted, it causes many health problems, including seasonal allergies. So, extremely thin needles are inserted into specific points of the body to stimulate proper flow of energy and thereby get rid of the disease or condition that is troubling you.
The big question is does acupuncture show results. The answer is a resounding yes. A study performed in South Korea on patients suffering from seasonal allergies found when the subjects were given acupuncture for a period of 5 weeks, two sessions of 20 minutes, they experienced a significant reduction in their symptoms.
Another study conducted in Germany at the University Medical Center located in Berlin also came to a similar conclusion. Furthermore, in clinical trials, researchers have found that acupuncture can treat the unpleasant symptoms of seasonal allergies. One study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology states acupuncture has the ability to offer dramatic relief from symptoms of allergic rhinitis, or hay fever.
So, acupuncture definitely is backed by science. However, it is important you find a trained and qualified acupuncturist to treat it. It is only then you will experience results and your treatment will be deemed successful. In fact, there is anecdotal evidence to show patients experience immediate relief after the very first session. In addition, acupuncturists claim when the energy balance of the body is restored, it boosts immunity, alleviates pain, improves blood circulation, reduces stress and promotes overall wellbeing and health. As there is no use of drugs and medications, both adults and kids are gradually turning to acupuncture for seasonal allergies.
