Seasonal Allergies & Sinus Problems
Source: Pacific College of Oriental Medicine
http://www.pacificcollege.edu/acupuncture-massage-news/articles/1372-sinus-problems-and-seasonal-allergies-cured-with-traditional-chinese-medicine.html
Traditional Chinese Medicine can provide an alternative treatment for seasonal allergies and sinus problems. Most medical practitioners will recommend using decongestants, non-steroidal nasal sprays, allergy shots, antihistamines, or nasal corticosteroids to combat these sinus problems. While these options have been successful for many patients afflicted with burning throats, itchy eyes, inflamed eyes, and stuffy nose, there are many individuals that do not respond well to these treatment plans, or who would like to go a more natural route.
What is Traditional Chinese Medicine? What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a healing modality in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). A large component of TCM is the study of hundreds of points, known as acupoints, on the human body, each corresponding to a different organ system or channel of energy, known as ‘meridians’. In acupuncture treatments, each point is carefully chosen to correspond with the other points to treat the issue at hand. Acupuncture involves the application of fine needles to specific acupoints based on the patient’s diagnosis, to trigger the release of the body’s natural painkillers. Other alternative treatments in TCM include Chinese herbal medicines, dietary therapy, and tui na massage to balance the Five Elements and Six Exogenous Pathogenic Factors.
Can TCM Alleviate Seasonal Allergies?
According to the United States Food and Drug Administration, around 26 million people suffer from seasonal allergies that often become chronic. Nearly 40 million people suffer from non-chronic allergies. Traditional Chinese Medicine can successfully alleviate many of the symptoms associated with allergies.
Dr. Patrick LaRiccia, board member of the Medical Acupuncture Research Foundation, states “There is often a quick response to acupuncture treatment. Many patients who failed medication and allergy shots respond to acupuncture. Acupuncture can be used to treat seasonal allergies alongside western treatment and often decreases the dependence on other allergy medications.”
Can TCM Alleviate Sinus Problems?
Many individuals suffering from sinus problems are unaware of the cause of this ailment. Congestion, itchy throat, and a stuffy or runny nose, and sinus migraines can be brought on by a simple seasonal allergy, cold winter snap, or excess dairy intake. Victims suffer from stiff neck and shoulders, inflamed nasal passages, and fatigue.
Acupuncture is effective for opening up nasal passages and relieving congestion and Chinese herbal medicine, like Angelica root, field mint, and Xanthium Powder can also help. Whether used alone or in conjunction with western medicine, TCM can provide fast and effective relief for seasonal or chronic allergies, enabling you to enjoy the seasons.
