How to survive Spring time with seasonal allergies

Spring is finally here!

After a long, cold and dark winter, many of us Ballarat folk are welcoming the warmer weather.

Yet unfortunately for some people, spring time also brings about the dreaded seasonal allergies….

WHAT ARE ALLERGIES?
 
An allergy occurs when your immune system over reacts to substances in the environment that are usually harmless to most people.  Your body releases a chemical called histamine, which leads to inflammation in certain parts of the body depending on the type of allergen.
 
For those who suffer with allergic rhinitis, more commonly known as hay fever, inhaling the allergen pollen, found in higher amounts in springtime, brings about inflammation in the airways, and those affected often suffer one or many of symptoms such as

• sinus congestion
•  runny nose
•  itchy and watery eyes
•  sneezing
• itchy and painful nose, throat and roof of mouth
•  ear pressure
• coughing caused by a postnasal drip

 
Secondary to this, people suffering from seasonal allergies may get headaches and neck stiffness due to the sinus and lymph congestion, and an overall fatigue.
 
COMMON TREATMENT OPTIONS
 
For people wanting to avoid over use of medications the following tips may also be of benefit:

• Keep doors and windows closed during high pollen season
• Avoid hanging laundry outside
• Use a humidifier
• Stay indoors on dry, windy days
• Avoid outdoor activities in the early morning with the pollen counts are highest.
• Wearing protective wraparound sunglasses when outdoors.
• Probiotics help the gut to reduce permeability and reduce inflammation ( Marteau, 2002)
• Vitamin D helps the immune system reduce levels of inflammation and strengthen skin barriers. (Allen, et al., 2013)
• Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps lower histamine levels in the bloodstream. (Thornhill, S., Kelly, A-M. 2002)

 
HOW CAN CHIROPRACTIC HELP?
 
Chiropractic adjustments do not treat allergies or the immune system. Chiropractors remove interference to the nervous system by restoring correct vertebral motion, to thus allow the body to function and fight like it is meant to.  Like all our bodies tissues, glands, cells and processes, our immune system is subject to control by our nervous system.  A healthy and strong nervous system can more readily aid the body’s reaction to allergens.  An immune system free of stress can more readily function to combat allergens effectively. (Alcantara, J., Van Roo, 2008. p 17)
 
Moreover, specific chiropractic techniques can also be beneficial to improve joint motion and muscle tension associated with the effects of excessive coughing and sneezing. In addition to this, sinus massage can help to drain the sinuses to prevent excessive and painful congestion.

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by Dr. Emma Wilkinson