Seasonal Allergy

WHAT DOES TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE SAY:

In Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, allergy is the combination of organ dysfunction that relates to Lung, Spleen, and Liver. While the symptoms are mostly reflecting on the Lung (Respiratory system), dysfunction of Spleen (the cause of dampness and phlegm) and Liver (disperse of Qi) are the two major factors.

Meridian wise, the mainly affected ones are LI, LU, UB, and ST. By using EMAS, specific imbalanced meridian will be determined upon consultation.

By strengthening Spleen, the water-processing function could be reinforced, thus the excess water (in form of phlegm and nasal drip) would be diminished. In addition, strengthening Lung's Qi function will help nasal congestion and itching problem.

Common differentiation are two types: The hot-type of the allergy will be marked with yellow nasal discharge / phlegm; cold-type is marked with clear discharge.

Treatment plan can include the use of Acupuncture and herbal formulas, please contact your acupuncture to tailor out your treatment plan.

SEASONAL ALLERGY AT A GLANCE:

OCCURS WHEN:

Change of Season, triggered with specific agent like pollen, dust, or other particles.

SYMPTOMS:

  • sneezing
  • runny nose
  • coughing
  • nasal congestion
  • itching of the nose / eye
  • post-nasal drip
  • nausea
  • dizziness
  • may trigger asthma

If you have body aches, fever and sore throat in addition to the symptoms above, you might be having a common-cold. Please consult with your physician for an accurate diagnosis.

AT-HOME ACUPRESSURE

These points are good for relieving allergy symptoms:

LI-4

It is the season of Spring! While many are enjoying the flowers and sunshine, those who have season allergy will start to have the love/hate complex for the season.

WHAT ARE SEASONAL ALLERGIES

A seasonal allergy is an allergic reaction to a trigger that is typically only present for part of the year, such as spring or fall. This type of allergy refers to a pollen allergy, such as trees, weeds and grasses. Perennial allergies, on the other hand, are usually present year-round, and include allergens such as pet dander and house dust mite. Molds can be a seasonal or perennial allergy trigger.

Seasonal allergies are also often referred to as hay fever.

UB(BL) 1 &2, YuYao

The real cause of seasonal allergy is unknown aside triggered by known allergens, and the more common treatment is to use antihistamine drugs to control the symptoms.

MAJOR SIDE EFFECTS OF ALLERGY DRUGS ( Zyrtec, Benadryl, Claritin):

  • Dry mouth
  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Restlessness or moodiness (in some children)
  • Trouble urinating or not being able to urinate
  • Blurred vision
  • Confusion
  • Upset stomach

LI 20

DIET SUGGESTIONS

  • Avoid seafood with shells (oyster, shrimp, crab)
  • Avoid fried and greasy food
  • Avoid spicy food

HERBAL FORMULA SUGGESTIONS

  • Qing Fei Tang (Hot-Type)
  • Xiao Qing Long Tang (Cold-Type)

RELATED LINKS:

Allergy Relief Tips