Natural Solutions to Allergy Problems
Allergic conditions have been increasing dramatically in industrialized countries around the world. More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies and more than 100 million Americans experience allergy-like symptoms. Allergies are the 6th leading cause of chronic disease in the U.S., costing the health care system over $18 billion annually. Many diseases such as migraines, diabetes type II, rheumatoid arthritis, colitis and others can be caused by an allergic response. Some of the more common symptoms or problems that one might experience due to allergies include:
• Runny nose • Ear infections • Coughing
• Burning, watery eyes • Chest congestion • Headaches
• Sinus congestion • Fatigue • Asthma
• Postnasal drip • Skin rash • Sore throat
Other, less common symptoms or problems that you or your children might experience due to allergies include:
• Learning problems • Joint swelling and pain • Heartburn
• Hyperactivity • Heart palpitations • Ulcers
• Mood swings • Urinary tract problems • Seizures
• Weight loss or gain • Appetite changes • Arthritis
Allergies are an over-reaction of the body’s immune system to normal substances such as dust, mold, pollen, animals, and even foods. These substances only affect a person who is overly sensitive to them. Over-sensitivities are due to a genetic predisposition because your body is malfunctioning from accumulated stress. Research at Nassau University Medical Center has shown that when an allergen enters the body, the immune system reacts as if it were bacteria. The immune system in turn notifies the brain which then causes the secretion of certain hormones in response. This system has been found to be the key factor in immune system disorders including allergies, auto-immune disorders, and immune deficiency disorders. It is also important to know that the principal endocrine (hormone) glands in your body involved in stress are the adrenal glands.
According to a study published by The Davidson College, stress can inhibit the function of the nervous system and the adrenal glands where adrenaline and cortisone-like hormones are produced. It is no wonder that these two areas are directly involved with the development, prevention, and treatment of allergy problems.
Your nervous system controls all of the functions in the body. When the brain is notified by your immune system that a virus, bacteria, or particle you are allergic to enters your body, it sends a signal for your body to fight back. It is the fight against these allergic substances, known as allergens, that produces many allergic reactions. Doctors at John’s Hopkins School of Medicine have found that hay fever [allergies] and asthma originate from events, not only in the respiratory system, but from the nervous system overreacting to stimuli. Scientists call the connection between the brain, your hormones, and your immune system, the neuro-endocrine immune system whose reactions are what cause the manifestation of allergic symptoms.
There are three approaches to handling allergy problems. The first is to avoid contact with substances that you are allergic to. Some tests that can help you determine what substances you may be allergic to include skin tests, blood tests, or an Allergy Pulse Test you can do at home. The second approach is to take medications to suppress your allergy symptoms. Unfortunately, even over-the-counter allergy medications can cause serious side effects. For example, Benadryl® (diphenhydramine), has been found to cause:
rash, anaphylactic shock, photosensitivity, excessive perspiration, chills, hypotension, headaches, palpitations, sleepiness, dizziness, disturbed coordination, fatigue, confusion, restlessness, nervousness, tremors, irritability, insomnia, blurred vision, convulsions, gastrointestinal problems, urinary dysfunction, thickening of bronchial secretions, and sinus problems.
All allergy medications have been found to produce similar or more severe side effects. The third solution, without side effects, involves helping your nervous system and your immune system handle allergens more effectively.
Chiropractors can evaluate your nervous system and determine which areas to adjust to stimulate and improve brain function and adrenal function which results in helping to eliminate one of the causes of allergic reactions. A combination of chiropractic care to improve brain and neurological function along with proper rest, exercise, and nutrition, to strengthen your adrenal glands can produce an improved overall state of health and well-being and reduce or even eliminate allergy problems.
