Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic reaction affecting millions worldwide. Various symptoms characterize it, including sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itching of the eyes, nose, and throat. While treatment options for hay fever (allergic rhinitis) include over-the-counter medications and prescription
drugs such as antihistamines, acupuncture has been gaining attention as a positive alternative therapy to relieve hay fever (allergic rhinitis) symptoms without the use of these drugs.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific acupuncture points on the body. It is believed that acupuncture can help circulation or energy flow in the body and encourage proper function of organs and organ systems, including our immune system. Several studies have explored the potential benefits of acupuncture for hay fever symptoms and allergic rhinitis, with promising results.
One study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine in 2013 found that acupuncture effectively reduced allergy symptoms in participants with hay fever and allergic rhinitis. In this randomized controlled trial, participants received 12 acupuncture treatments over several weeks. Those who received acupuncture had more significant improvement in symptoms compared to those who received sham acupuncture or no treatment.
Another study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology in 2015 found that acupuncture may be particularly beneficial for children's hay fever (allergic rhinitis) symptoms. In this study, children who received acupuncture in addition to standard care had more significant improvements in nasal and eye symptoms compared to those who received standard care alone.
While the exact mechanisms behind acupuncture's effects on hay fever (allergic rhinitis) symptoms are not fully understood in Western medical circles, acupuncture may help to modulate immune function and reduce inflammation. This suggests that acupuncture may be a viable option for those who prefer natural or alternative therapies for hay fever (allergic rhinitis) treatment of all ages and genders.
It is important to note that while acupuncture may be a promising therapy for hay fever (allergic rhinitis) symptoms, it is essential to speak with a qualified practitioner like your general practitioner (GP) and consult Acute Acupuncture to determine if it is right for you.
Acupuncture may be a beneficial therapy for those suffering from hay fever (allergic rhinitis) symptoms. As more research continues on acupuncture for a wide variety of health conditions, it is vital to consider acupuncture as a potential alternative or complementary therapy to conventional treatments. If you want to book a treatment and are still unsure, book a 15-minute consultation at Acute Acupuncture today and find out if Acupuncture is right for you. Thank you for taking the time to read this Blog Post. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this post. If you have any more questions or concerns, check out our Acute-Acupuncture Wellington Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), as we find these help answer most people's questions.