Allergic to Spring?

Allergic sinusitis

Symptoms commonly include facial pain with a feeling of pressure and fullness, headaches, nasal blockage, nasal discharge, dental pain and ear pain. The most common allergens that are associated with allergic sinusitis include dust, mould, pollen, and other environmental substances. Allergic reactions can also be caused by bacterial or fungal infections. (e.g. staph and strep toxins).

Nasal polyps also appear to be associated with allergic sinusitis; triggers for polyps include allergy, viral infection, fungal infection, bacterial infection and environmental pollution.

Allergic Rhinitis

Symptoms include runny nose, itchy eyes and nose and possible congestion. The most common allergens associated with allergic rhinitis are pollen and house dust mite. Occupation specific allergens are also implicated, e.g. persulfate salts (found in hair bleaching products) are the major agents involved in occupational rhinitis and occupational asthma in hairdressers. Passive cigarette smoking has also been shown to increase congestion in children with allergic rhinitis.

Fortunately we have specific herbs and and nutritional supple- ments at our disposal for treating both allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. Depending on the condition and severity, I would normally formulate a tonic containing herbs to decrease allergic response (e.g. Baical Skullcap, Albizzia), to treat chronic infec- tion (Echinacea, Cats Claw), reduce inflammation of the mucus membranes, and excessive mucus production (Eyebright, Boswellia), as well as a herb or two to strengthen the integrity of the mucous membranes (Golden Seal, Golden Rod).

In conjunction with herbal medicine, vitamin C with a high bioflavonoid component is superb anti-histamine if used at high enough doses and is normally included in an anti- allergic protocol, as well as a probiotic, namely Lactobacillus rhamnosus which stabilizes the immune system and decreases the pro-inflammatory cascade.

So don’t put up with dripping noses, watering eyes, blocked sinuses or seasonal sneezing. There is a plethora of safe, natural remedies to successfully treat this group of rather annoying allergic responses!