Respiratory Conditions
(Allergies, Chronic Sinus Conditions, Asthma, Colds & Flu)

Allergies

Springtime is the time all of us think about getting outdoors more, and becoming more active.  However, it is also when allergies strike, interfering with our ability to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.  Some allergies are present in the fall, or year-round.  Many allergy medications cause side effects, including drowsiness – others are contra-indicated in people who have diabetes or high blood pressure.

Chinese herbs and acupuncture calm an over-active immune system, as well as alleviate the symptoms of seasonal allergies.  They relieve irritation and swelling of nasal passages, soothe watery and itchy eyes, reduce mucus production and post-nasal drip,  relieve sinus pain and headache, and alleviate cough.  In fact, beginning treatment  two months before allergy season,  can significantly reduce allergic symptoms, and may even prevent them from developing.

Acupuncture stimulates the lymphatic system, with a regulating effect on immune function.   It can help the body to martial its own natural defenses,  while reducing sensitivity to allergens.  Chinese herbs are gentle substances in the format of a balanced formula, often customized by the herbalist to each unique patient.   Continuing your treatments in a maintenance program between allergy seasons may be recommended for a time, especially if you have had allergies for several years.  This improves your underlying health until your immune system becomes far less reactive to non-pathogens.

Chronic Sinus Conditions

Chronic sinus congestion may result from allergies or lingering symptoms after a cold or flu.  Inflamed and swollen sinus tissues produce excess phlegm, which can become a breeding ground for pathogens.  Although most “sinus infections” are treated with antibiotics, only a small percentage are actually caused by bacterial infection – many are viral infections or simply residual inflammation that takes on a life of its own. Although antibiotics are essential at times, their frequent use can lead to bacterial resistance and can weaken the immune system.  Herbal formulas are a gentle way to alleviate symptoms,  and address the underlying conditions of inflammation and mucus over-production that leave you susceptible to future flare-ups, whether the cause is bacterial or viral.

Chinese herbs and acupuncture strengthen the immune system, and alleviate sinus congestion. One should expect some immediate relief of congestion during an acupuncture session, as well as pain relief.  However, long-standing chronic conditions may require several months to address the underlying causes. Acupuncture and herbs are combined for a more potent effect. Chinese herbs are given as a balanced formula to address different aspects of sinus symptoms: herbs that open up nasal passages and sinuses, herbs that transform and eliminate phlegm, herbs that reduce inflammation, herbs that relieve sinus pain and headache, and herbs that boost immunity, would typically be in a formula for sinus inflammation.

Dietary Modification is a crucial component in controlling sinus congestion and phlegm. Certain foods, such as dairy products and wheat, as well as white sugar in baked goods and other foods, can make the condition worse.  Temporarily avoiding these foods and adding a probiotic helps the body to recover more quickly (yes, a healthy gut does wonders for respiratory health).  Including “spicy” foods like ginger, onions, radishes, and garlic is beneficial, as well.  Your acupuncturist can give you additional recommendations so that you can learn to maximize your own health through dietary and lifestyle changes.

Asthma

Asthma is a type of inflammation that affects the airways (bronchi) inside the lungs, resulting in inability to catch one’s breath.  The airways tighten due to spasming of tiny muscles around the airways, and overproduction of mucus clogs that them.  Causes are often related to allergies,  but many other factors can contribute, including sensitivity to cold air, respiratory infections, exercise, or emotions.  Pharmaceutical treatments may include inhalers for acute symptoms, as well as longer-acting meds that address the underlying inflammation.

Chinese herbs and acupuncture plus cupping can be utilized as an adjunct to meds to reduce symptoms and lessen the frequency of acute episodes.  Acupuncture points may be local (on the chest) or on the arms and legs – relief from sensations of tightness in the chest and wheezing can be achieved during a session. Cupping is also very effective at opening up the chest and enabling more complete breathing.  (Cupping is a procedure that involves creating a vacuum under glass “cups”, and moving them back and forth over the meridians on the back – this is very relaxing).  In addition, herbal therapy over a 12-week period can reduce the need for inhalers and steroidal anti-inflammatories.  Since asthma is generally a chronic condition, best results may be achieved by weekly treatments over a period of several months.

Colds and Flu

There are many OTC products on the market to minimize cold symptoms,  but none of them can stop a cold from progressing once it has started.  Many of these products address the headache, fever, and runny nose, and other symptoms associated with colds and flu.  The best therapy for a cold is to stay at home, reduce your exposure of others, and get plenty of rest and fluids. However, few of us seem able to put our lives on hold for a sickness that generally will run its course and be over in a week or less.  The flu can be more serious, and the resulting fatigue can last for a month or more.  Some types (but not all flu) respond to new antiviral meds if caught early enough – generally in the first 48 hours.

Chinese medicine has many herbal formulas for colds and flu – as with modern medications, they are much more effective if treatment begins early.  In fact, treating at the first sign of a tickle in your throat can even stop a cold in its tracks.  Chinese herbs have the ability to push the pathogen out of the body, as well as alleviate symptoms.  The Chinese approach is far more varied and customized to the individual – some folks do well with standard formulas, while others need a little tonic (herbs that strengthen the immune system) added.  Colds go through many stages, and there are formulas specific to each stage (from early scratchy or sore throat to full-blown cold symptoms, to residual cough and phlegm after the main event) This is why herbal medicine is so versatile. At any stage,  these formulas can be customized to address the array of symptoms and the specific needs (underlying health) of the individual.  Furthermore, herbs are far gentler, with fewer side effects, than the majority of cough and cold products on the market.  Taking them during the course of your infection can make you feel better, and assists your body in fighting the infection so that recovery time is much shorter.