Allergy Relief

Dear Dr. Wonson:
Because I suffer from respiratory-related allergies, I spend every spring sneezing, wheezing and coughing. I want to continue my active outdoor lifestyle, but I don't want to be dependent upon prescription and over-the-counter allergy medication. What can I do now to minimize my symptoms during the springtime allergy season?
- Another Allergy Sufferer

"As an accountant, tax season and allergies used to go hand-in-hand for me. Thanks to Dr. Wonson's acupuncture treatments, chiropractic adjustments and nutritional recommendations, springtime has become a season for good health - not congestion. I can now think clearly and perform productively when I need to the most. My energy is increased, I accomplish so much more and my quality of life is greatly approved."
--Jeff, CPA

Dear Allergy Sufferer:
It is estimated that between 40 and 50 million Americans suffer from allergies. With symptoms that range from mild to severe, allergies can impair clear thinking and productivity. They are also the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the United States, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

Derived from the Greek words allos, meaning "different or changed," and ergos, meaning "work or action," an allergy is simply a misguided reaction by your body's immune system. For allergy sufferers, exposure to normally harmless substances, called allergens, causes the body to react as if the substance is harmful. When someone with allergies comes in contact with an allergen, such as pollen, mold, dander or dust mites, their body responds by releasing inflammatory histamines that cause swelling, itching, increased secretions and the tightening of muscles around the airways. The resulting symptoms include itchy, watery eyes, a runny nose, sneezing and difficulty breathing - all of which decrease energy levels and cause varying degrees of discomfort.

Since allergic reactions are caused by a deficiency in the immune system, the best way to prevent them is to strengthen the immune system. Don't just treat the symptomsÑtry to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Like runners training for a marathon, allergy sufferers can't wait until the day of the race to prepare. You have to plan ahead. In the spring, allergies blossom with the new growth on flowers, trees and weeds. Which makes now the time to make your body strong for the peak spring/early summer allergy season. Here are a few helpful tips to get you started:
- Dr. Wonson D.C., L.Ac.

Focus on Good Nutrition
Your immune system needs nourishment to function properly. Eat a well-balanced diet with green leafy vegetables and protein. Meals should be consumed at warm temperatures - cold food and drink aggravate sinuses and increase mucus production, which causes coughing, sneezing and other uncomfortable symptoms. Be sure to drink plenty of warm-temperature water as well.

Avoid Excess Sugar And Refined Flours Such As White Bread, Pasta and Pastries
High sugar and white flour intake decreases the effectiveness of the immune system and increases mucus production. Try to limit your sugar intake by consuming only one piece of fruit or glass of juice a day, and avoiding alcohol and sweets.

Stay Warm
Because your body has to work hard to maintain its internal body temperature, cold temperatures can weaken the immune system. So it's important to dress warmly at all times. Wear a scarf to protect your neck, which is especially vulnerable because of its lack of tissue, and dress in layers to ward off chilly nights and mornings.

Stay Aligned
The nerves that control your sinuses run from your neck to your lungs. If these nerve pathways become blocked because of misalignment, sinus infections will result. Regular neck alignments significantly minimize many allergy- and cold-related symptoms.

Avoid Humidity
Hot, moist air is a breeding ground for many allergens. To minimize these allergic triggers, keep the temperature of your house between 68 and 72 degrees. It is also important to minimize clutter that can collect dust and pollens.

For more information on preventing and treating allergy-related symptoms, contact Dr. Wonson's office at 415/544-9104, or send us an e-mail at drwonson@drwonson.com.