Allergy is a hypersensitive disorder of the immune system. It happens when a person’s immune system over-reacts to substances in the environment. Allergy is very common and affects one third of New Zealanders. As it often links with asthma attack, it could become life threatening in some critical stage. Mild allergy, such as hay fever is very common and affects about 20% of the general population. Among them, one third develops problem before the age of 10. After the sensitive allergens, such as dust mite, pet, pollen and mould, are contacted, the body, especially nose and sinus sets off the allergy response and produces extra lining in the cavity, resulting runny, stuffy, itch nose and frequent sneezing. It can also affect eyes, throat and ears as well as digestive system and skins.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the blockage of Qi (energy) and blood flow in the meridian will affect the functions of corresponding organ and result the unbalance of whole body. For example, Lung controls breathing by clearing the respiratory tract. It is also responsible for preventing pathogenic factors invading the body. In hay fever, Lung meridian is blocked due to invasion of the pathogenic factors and, consequently, symptoms are presented along pathway of Lung meridian, including nose. Spleen also involves in this complicated process as it is responsible for the fluid transportation in TCM. If a person has weak digestion, spleen can over-produce dampness, such as mucus and this mucus tends to accumulate in the lungs. Therefore, treatments for allergy always focus on the lung and spleen although kidney is also considered when there is family history of the conditions.
The result of acupuncture treatment is range from temporary relief to long-term remission. Majority of patients experience relief of nasal congestion and sneezing as soon as they complete the treatment. World Health Organisation (WHO) recognize that “acupuncture is more effective than antihistamine drugs in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Acupuncture’s lack of side-effects is a distinct advantage in treating this condition….”. Research also shows that acupuncture can change the secretion of neurotransmitters and hormones. It further reduces specific IgE level by producing body’s natural antihistamine.
For more information, please contact Auckland eastMED acupuncture. We can discuss if acupuncture will benefit your condition.