Allergies are estimated to impact over 20% of the U.S. population. While conventional treatments like over-the-counter and prescription medications are frequently used to manage allergies, research has indicated that chiropractic care can help alleviate allergy symptoms and even contribute to lasting relief.
What Are Allergies?
Allergies occur when your immune system responds to a foreign substance known as an “allergen.” These allergens can encompass pollen, mold, animal dander, specific foods, or irritants that affect your skin.
What Happens During An Allergic Reaction?
Allergic reactions begin when you breathe in, ingest, or come into contact with an allergen. In reaction, your body generates a protein that attaches to the allergen. This process triggers the release of histamine and other compounds into your bloodstream. These released chemicals are responsible for the symptoms you experience.
What Are Common Symptoms of An Allergic Reaction?
The symptoms you experience can vary based on how you come into contact with the allergen, whether it’s through inhalation, skin contact, food consumption, or an insect sting. Typical symptoms include:
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Watery, itchy eyes
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Sneezing
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Runny nose
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Fatigue or a general feeling of unwell
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Skin rash or hives
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Abdominal discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea
How Are Allergies Treated?
The treatment of allergies typically involves the use of medications, which can be obtained over the counter or by prescription. These medications aim to alleviate and manage allergy symptoms such as nasal congestion and runny nose. Common types of allergy drugs include antihistamines, decongestants, combination medications, and corticosteroids.
Immunotherapy, in the form of allergy shots or pills, is also employed as a means of treating allergies.
While these treatment methods are effective in alleviating allergy symptoms, they may not directly enhance your body’s innate capacity to combat allergens.
Chiropractic Care For Allergies
Chiropractic care as a remedy for allergies is a treatment approach that is sometimes underestimated, despite its substantiated effects in enhancing the body’s immune capabilities and its reaction to allergens.
The presence of vertebral subluxations can lead to interference in the communication between the brain and the nervous system, impairing the body’s capacity to defend against allergens. The correction of these subluxations through spinal adjustments is known to result in improved immune function, significantly diminishing the adverse effects of allergies on the body.
Research Supporting the Treatment of Allergies with Chiropractic
A 1999 research study titled, “Assessing the Impact of Chiropractic Spinal Manipulative Therapy on Non-Musculoskeletal Symptoms,” involved surveying 1,504 chiropractic patients. This study revealed that 23% of the patients reported experiencing enhancements in non-musculoskeletal symptoms. These improvements included easier breathing, reduced skin irritations, diminished asthma symptoms, and fewer allergic reactions.
Another investigation, “Exploring the Role of Chiropractic Adjustments in Managing Visceral Conditions,” conducted a survey among chiropractors in Australia. The findings showed that over 50% of the chiropractors surveyed believed that chiropractic adjustments could have a positive impact on asthma. Furthermore, more than 25% of these practitioners felt that chiropractic adjustments could be beneficial for patients dealing with sinusitis.
In addition, an analysis titled “Characteristics of Pediatric and Adult Patients at a Chiropractic Teaching Clinic,” observed a common occurrence of ear infections, sinus issues, allergies, and respiratory difficulties among pediatric patients attending Western States Chiropractic College’s public clinic. After undergoing chiropractic treatment, it was noted that almost 62% of pediatric patients achieved complete or significant improvement in their primary health concerns. Furthermore, 57% of adult patients reported experiencing the highest level of improvement following chiropractic care.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Many patients have noted significant improvements, with some experiencing positive changes even after their initial visit. However, to ensure sustained progress, a structured treatment plan with ongoing chiropractic adjustments is often recommended. Each individual’s circumstances are unique, underscoring the importance of undergoing a comprehensive chiropractic assessment to determine your specific requirements and tailor the treatment accordingly.
Conclusion
If you are currently dealing with allergies, chiropractic care is a well-established natural treatment option that enhances your immune system’s ability to respond to allergens.
We encourage you to arrange an appointment at our chiropractic clinic for a thorough consultation. During this consultation, one of our experienced doctors will evaluate your condition, provide a precise diagnosis, and develop a tailored treatment plan to alleviate your allergy symptoms and support long-term recovery.
