Acupuncture for allergy management is an effective alternative for those who cannot tolerate medications. Although allopathic medicine is effective at treating the allergic response, side effects such as drowsiness, sinus headache, nose and throat dryness, fatigue, and insomnia cause many to seek alternative approaches to treat symptoms. Itching, discharge and nasal congestion are often relieved during the first acupuncture treatment.

Allergy symptoms are frequently treated with antihistamine agents (antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, allergy shots, and decongestants), which often treat symptoms by immune system suppression. As a primary therapy modality or in combination with conventional medication, acupuncture effectively addresses the root cause of allergies by correcting the underlying immune system imbalance. Acupuncture stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals that regulate the body’s antigen-antibody reactions. This reduces allergic symptoms such as asthma, sneezing and congestion.

Acupuncture produces symptom relief while aiding the body’s capacity to process allergens. Acupuncture physicians attend to the causes of allergies, treating the person holistically. By focusing on immune system balance, acupuncture treatment can result in long-term allergy management. Acupuncture increases energy and biochemical balance, which enhances the body’s natural healing abilities. Chinese herbal medicine and dietary modification may be prescribed in conjunction with acupuncture to lessen the effects of allergies.

Acupuncture should be used preventatively when allergic reactions are not occurring. For some people, allergies can be managed with acupuncture maintenance treatments during seasonal changes. Patients suffering from seasonal allergies should seek treatment a month prior to the start of the allergy season to lessen the effects of allergies. Others may require a series of treatments to reduce dependency on medication and decrease congestion and cough. A significant improvement in allergy symptoms usually occurs after the first four to six treatments.

Acupuncture & Massage College offers a Masters of Oriental Medicine program that prepares graduates for careers as acupuncture physicians. For more information about the program call Joe Calareso at (305) 595-9500.