How do allergies start?
Allergies occur when your immune system abnormally responds to specific stimuli. These stimuli might be things you’ve eaten, touched, or breathed in. In response to a particular stimulus, called an allergen, your immune system initiates an inflammatory response.
Part of the inflammatory process is the release of histamines, which are chemicals that aim to eliminate any traces of the allergen in your body. They do so by increasing mucus production and blood flow in the parts of your body affected by the allergen, which causes an allergic reaction.
What are some common causes of allergies?
Common causes of allergens include:
- Pet dander
- Pollen
- Milk
- Eggs
- Shellfish
- Peanuts
- Soy
- Wheat
- Insect stings
- Latex
- Mold
- Medications
Allergic reactions can range from mild and slightly uncomfortable to life-threatening.
What are some common allergic symptoms?
The symptoms you experience from allergies vary based on the allergen type and the severity of your immune system’s reaction to it.
Depending on your allergy, your symptoms might include:
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Itchy nose
- Sneezing
- Hives
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Bloating
- Swelling
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Shortness of breath
For some people, allergies trigger asthma attacks involving wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness.
Severe allergies can also cause a severe and dangerous reaction called anaphylaxis, which requires emergency medical attention. It causes airway constriction, a drop in blood pressure, dizziness, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea.
How do acupuncture and Chinese medicine treat allergies?
At Elemental Acupuncture, Dr. Leddy specializes in allergy management and prevention using acupuncture and Chinese medicine. These strategies focus on removing the allergen from your system and reducing your exaggerated immune system response.
Acupuncture reduces inflammation and mucus production while also retraining your body to respond normally to your allergens. Adding herbal supplements enhances the positive effects of acupuncture on allergies.
Dr. Leddy typically recommends at least 10-20 acupuncture treatments alongside individualized herbal medicine supplements. You might require maintenance treatments during high allergy seasons.
To learn more about how acupuncture and Chinese medicine treat allergies, call the friendly office staff at Elemental Acupuncture today to schedule an appointment, or use the convenient online scheduling tool now.
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