Springtime Allergies

Welcome Spring!! Watery eyes. Sneezing. Itchy ears. Runny nose. Even I suffer from springtime allergies.

We've all seen the commercials for Allegra, Benadryl, Singulair and Zyrtec. But let's take a closer look at Zyrtec (for instance). Taken from drugs.com side effects of Zyrtec include: drowsiness, dry mouth, stomach pain (in children), tiredness, trouble sleeping (in children); not to mention severe allergic reactions, dark urine, fainting, fast or irregular heartbeat, mental or mood changes, persistent fatigue, seizures, severe dizziness, unusual bruising or bleeding, yellowing of eyes or skin. Yikes! I think I'd rather suffer those allergies!!

First, what are allergies? It's a hyperactive immune response. Our immune system sees pollen (mites, whatever the allergen is) as foreign invaders and decides to launch an attack to get rid of them. Mast cells release histamine and leukotrienes which then cause an inflammatory response: swelling, itching, mucus congestion, even constriction of airways (for those who suffer asthma).

The good news is that you can combat those allergens naturally with no side effects by making your body less reactive. I've seen it myself and with my patients. It's important to address inflammation. Leukotrienes are derivatives of arachidonic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid), therefore supplementation with an omega-3 oil is crucial. Certain foods may also cause inflammation. This is determined on an individual basis, but well-known mucus-producing foods are dairy and citrus. Therefore you must eliminate those inflammatory-prone foods (or at least limit them). Then there naturally occurring antihistamines found in herbs and vitamins (vitamin C, for instance). I've also seen relief with the use of acupuncture and Chinese herbs. In Chinese medicine, allergies is often seen as wind invasion, some qi deficiencies, and dampness.

Recently my friend Tamarra told me that I've changed her life (in regards to her allergies) with just the elimination of milk and taking nettles capsules. Not every case is as simple as hers, but there is hope. Please contact me and I would love to help you figure out what your triggers are and to fight those allergies.