WHAT IS HAY FEVER?

Hay fever or Allergic rhinitis is an inflammation of the nose caused by an overreaction of your immune system to outside factors.

 

In layman's terms, your nose acts as a filter and it will trap pollen from trees, weeds and grasses, dust and other microparticles. If you are allergic to any of these particles, your immune system will launch an "attack", trigger inflammation and increase the production of mucus in your nose. This will result in symptoms that might make you think you have a cold:  sneezing, coughing, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, itchy throat, watery eyes.

 

The typical medication is an antihistamine.  It will relieve congestion but might also cause drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, nausea or vomiting.

 

HOW CAN ACUPUNCTURE HELP HAY FEVER COMPLAINTS?

​Acupuncture is a great alternative to antihistamine medication and has no side effects. It will help clear your stuffy nose, itchy throat, sneezing and, more importantly, strengthen your immune system. In other words, it will address both the manifestation (the allergic reaction) and the root of the problem (weakened immune system).

 

Ideally, you should have acupuncture treatments ahead of the hay fever season in order to prevent/diminish your allergic reaction, however, do not hesitate to call for treatment if you already have signs of hay fever.