Allergy Relief with Acupuncture

Allergy Relief with Acupuncture

If you need allergy relief due to a stuffy nose, congestion, coughing, watering eyes, or ear itching, you’re not alone. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, more than 100 million people nationwide experience allergies each year. Allergies are so common that they rank among the top 10 leading causes of chronic illness. But many people don’t know that acupuncture, a form of traditional Chinese medicine in practice for thousands of years, may provide the relief you need. Here’s what to know about acupuncture for allergy relief.

How Does Acupuncture Provide Allergy Relief?

To understand why acupuncture can be an effective treatment for allergies, it’s important to remember that allergies are a response from your immune system to a harmful substance. But, instead of reacting appropriately to the allergen (grass, pollen, animals, foods, medicines, etc.), the body overreacts.  The overreaction causes allergy symptoms including coughing, sneezing, itchy skin, hives, rashes, itchy/watery eyes, congestion, sore throat, etc.  

Acupuncture may work in two unique ways to help provide allergy relief.  Firstly, one theory holds that the practice of acupuncture impacts nerve fibers by influencing the way the autonomic nervous system communicates with other systems in the body, such as the immune system. This may trigger what is known as “defensive qi,” which is energy associated with immunity. 

Secondly, acupuncture may help to calm an overactive immune system that makes people susceptible to allergies. Acupuncture may reduce inflammation in the body by moderating certain cellular activities that cause swelling and irritation.  

Both theories may be partially correct, according to research. To date, multiple studies have shown that patients suffering from seasonal allergies who received acupuncture got better allergy relief than those treated with antihistamines.  A second study concluded that patients who received acupuncture experienced significantly diminished nasal symptoms and felt less need to take medication than those in the control group.  

Benefits of Acupuncture for Allergies

Acupuncture offers a variety of benefits when compared to pharmacological treatments for allergies.

• No side effects (drowsy, nauseous)
• Safe and effective
• Non-addictive
• May offer relief for other conditions such as stress, chronic pain, injuries
• Will not interact with other medications
• May be effective for hay fever, allergic eczema, environmental sensitivity, and food allergies.
• Boost in general wellness and energy

Choosing Between Swedish vs Deep Tissue Massage

To help decide between a Swedish vs deep tissue massage this checklist may be helpful.

• Are you seeking general relaxation and relief, or do you need therapy for a specific area? 
• Can you tolerate deep pressure?
• Do you have a known injury?
• Are you an athlete?

If you’re not sure what massage technique is most appropriate, do not hesitate to ask your therapist for guidance when you arrive for your appointment. Explain your aches, pains, or areas of tension, and ask for their recommendation. Your therapist’s goal is to provide you with relief, and they may suggest a combination of therapies that will be best suited to achieve your desired outcomes.

What to Expect at Your First Acupuncture Session for Allergies

If you’ve never had acupuncture, you may be surprised how much time the acupuncturist spends with you during your initial appointment. They will go over your medical history in detail, and they will provide a complete exam.  

Once your treatment begins, you’ll lie on a comfortable table, and your therapist will begin inserting the acupuncture needles. If you’re seeking allergy relief, your acupuncturist will likely place the needles on the front of your body, which may include the face, hands, feet, and ears. 

The very thin needles will remain in your body for less than 30 minutes before your acupuncturist therapist removes them.  

Massage Therapy for Tense, Knotted Muscles

To learn more about acupuncture for allergies, contact About Touch Massage & Acupuncture today.  We provide acupuncture for allergies, as well as relief from a variety of chronic health conditions. Our top-reviewed massage and acupuncture clinic also provides massage therapy for stiff muscles, muscle knots, injuries, and relaxation.  Book your appointment now or call 541-484-3055.