Summer is a much anticipated season and what’s there not to love? BBQs, beach days, vacations, picnics, baseball games, riding your bike, outdoor dining and concerts, and so much more. But, if you find yourself sniffling and sneezing your way through the hottest months of the year, you may be one of the millions worldwide who suffer from summer allergies. More than 50 million Americans have experienced various types of allergies each year. Allergies are the 6th leading cause of chronic illness in the United States. If you suffer from allergies you most likely will try anything to get relief, including reaching for the closest medication, but did you know acupuncture can help? Here is some more information about acupuncture, according to Very Well.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practice in which hair-thin needles are inserted into the body at specific points believed to be connected to each other by a network of energy lines called meridians. The meridians serve as a pathway along which qi (pronounced "chee"), or vital life energy, flows.
How it can be used to treat allergies
When acupuncture is used for allergies, several meridians located on the front of the body may be targeted, including the lungs, colon, stomach, and spleen. These meridians are believed to circulate defensive qi, a type of energy linked to immunity. A backup or a deficiency of defensive qi cause typical allergy symptoms such as swelling, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, allergic eczema, and conjunctivitis. The idea is that stimulating these points will restore defensive qi and relieve symptoms.
How it works
Some people with allergies who choose acupuncture are seeking alternatives to conventional treatment such as oral medications, nasal sprays, and immunotherapy. Others are looking for ways to enhance the effectiveness of medications they already are taking, such as antihistamines or nasal sprays, or shorten how long or how frequently they use them.
In both cases, the initial treatment of acupuncture for allergies typically involves weekly or twice-weekly appointments over several weeks or months, depending on the severity of symptoms. This may be followed by annual booster treatments or more on an as-needed basis.
Acupuncture generally is considered safe when administered by a well-trained practitioner. Most states require a license, certification, or registration to practice acupuncture but requirements vary from state to state.
Don’t let the summer pass you by while you’re stuck inside suffering from allergies symptoms. If you haven’t tried acupuncture for relief, now might be the time to consider it! At Advanced Physical Medicine, our experienced physicians are here to help you live a pain-free life as safely as possible. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
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