Managing Your Seasonal Allergies

Posted May 12, 2010 by Acupuncture & Massage College & filed under Holistic Medicine

Hay fever, or seasonal allergic rhinitis, is caused by airborne pollen and mold spores, and is experienced by over 35 million Americans. Symptoms often include runny nose, stuffiness, itchiness, watery, red eyes, and sneezing.
These symptoms are caused by your immune system, which recognizes pollen and mold as allergens, and produces antibodies that release chemicals to combat them, leading to an allergic reaction.
Symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis are often caused by grasses during the late spring and early summer.
Certain nutrients can help to ease symptoms. The flavonoid quercetin can aid in controlling the release of the histamine that causes the allergic response. Foods containing quercetin include broccoli, red onions, citrus fruits, red grapes, tomatoes, apples, and berries.
Tips to manage your seasonal allergy symptoms:
• Limit exposure to pollen and molds by staying indoors when the pollen count is high.
• Close car windows when driving.
• Avoid mowing the lawn or raking leaves.
• Keep home windows closed and use air conditioning to limit pollen in the house.
• Avoid line-drying laundry to limit exposure to pollens.
Conventional therapies for seasonal allergies often include medications or allergy shots. Using holistic therapies, like acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, can aid in symptom management. Acupuncture can be used as a primary or complementary therapy for seasonal allergies and produces no adverse side effects.

Acupuncture & Massage College’s Community Clinic offers acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for allergy management as well as a wide range of other health conditions. To schedule an appointment call (305) 595-9500. For information about AMC’s Oriental Medicine and Massage Therapy programs ask for Joe Calareso, Admissions Director.

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