As summer winds down in New Hampshire, many people start experiencing the unwelcome signs of seasonal allergies. Sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose, and congestion can make the beautiful late summer days less enjoyable. If you find yourself reaching for tissues more often than usual, you might be one of the many who suffer from late summer allergies.
What Causes Late Summer Allergies?
In late summer, some of the primary culprits of allergies in the northeast are ragweed pollen, mold spores, and dust mites. Each ragweed plant can produce up to a billion grains of pollen, which can travel hundreds of miles through the air. Even if you don’t see ragweed growing near your home, you can still be affected by its pollen.
Mold spores also thrive in the late summer heat and humidity. They can be found both indoors and outdoors, in places like soil, compost piles, and fallen leaves. Dust mites, tiny creatures that live in household dust, can also trigger allergies and are more prevalent during humid conditions.
How Acupuncture Can Help Ease Allergy Symptoms
Acupuncture is an ancient practice that has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of ailments, including allergies. It offers a natural, drug-free approach to managing allergy symptoms.
Here are some of the ways acupuncture can help treat allergies:
Reducing Inflammation: Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation in the body. When you have an allergic reaction, your body releases histamines, which cause inflammation and swelling. Acupuncture helps to modulate the immune system, reducing the production of histamines and other chemicals that cause inflammation.
Improving Circulation: By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture can improve blood flow and circulation. This helps to clear congestion and reduce symptoms like a runny nose and sinus pressure.
Strengthening the Immune System: Regular acupuncture treatments can help strengthen your immune system, making it less reactive to allergens. Over time, this can reduce the frequency and severity of your allergy symptoms.
Integrative Modalities Treating Allergies
In addition to acupuncture, there are a number of integrative, drug-free modalities that can be used to help reduce allergy symptoms and support overall health.
TCM herbal formulas: Traditional Chinese Medicine herbal formulas can effectively alleviate allergy symptoms by addressing the root causes of imbalances in the body. These formulas often include a combination of herbs that work synergistically to reduce inflammation, strengthen the immune system, and clear respiratory pathways. Additionally, TCM herbs can be tailored to the needs of each individual, providing a personalized approach to managing allergies and promoting overall well-being.
ATP Resonance Biotherapy™: This treatment is applied to the body with a device that delivers a mild current microcurrent. In ATP Resonance BioTherapy™, depending on the tissue involved, specific frequencies are selected to encourage natural healing of the body and to reduce pain. The procedure is quick and painless.
O3 Reboot Therapy™: Ozone therapy mixes gas naturally found in Earth’s atmosphere with oxygen to create a treatment with powerful healing capabilities. This type of treatment has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral benefits and can help boost the immune system.
Start Treatment Early to Get Ahead of Symptoms
The best time to start treating seasonal allergies is before the symptoms begin. If you know you suffer from late summer allergies, start your acupuncture and herbal treatments a few weeks ahead of when symptoms typically arise. This can help prepare your body and immune system to handle the allergens before they reach their peak levels.
For those new to acupuncture and TCM, it’s never too late to start. Even if your symptoms have already begun, acupuncture and herbal treatments can still provide relief and help manage your symptoms more effectively.
Other Tips to Help with Allergy Symptoms
In addition to acupuncture and herbal treatments, there are several other steps you can take to reduce your allergy symptoms:
Keep Windows Closed: During high pollen times, keep your windows closed to prevent pollen from entering your home. Use air conditioning to keep your home cool and dry.
Shower After Being Outdoors: Pollen can stick to your skin and hair. Showering after spending time outside can help remove pollen and reduce symptoms.
Use a HEPA Filter: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can help remove allergens from the air in your home. Use them in your air conditioning unit or a standalone air purifier.
Wash Bedding Frequently: Dust mites can accumulate in your bedding. Washing your sheets and pillowcases in hot water at least once a week can help reduce their presence.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help thin mucus and relieve congestion. Herbal teas, especially those with anti-inflammatory properties, can also be beneficial.
Find Seasonal Allergy Relief at Northeast Acupuncture and Wellness
If you’re struggling with late summer allergies, Northeast Acupuncture and Wellness is here to help. We use acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine to provide effective, natural relief from allergy symptoms. Don’t let allergies ruin your enjoyment of the beautiful late summer season. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward better health and relief from allergies. Our personalized treatment plans can help you breathe easier and enjoy life more fully.