Many states in America have lengthy allergy seasons that are nearly unbearable for allergy sufferers. Florida, for example, has one of the most pervasive and long-lasting allergy seasons in the whole country. There are multiple allergy seasons that each last for months on end and which overlap with each other. There is a tree pollen season that lasts for six months, a seven-month grass pollen season, an eight-month weed season, and a five-month weed-pollen season.
These days, allergy seasons are starting earlier and lasting longer, so people vulnerable to allergies will be suffering for months on end. Fortunately, there is a way to fight those Miami allergies and that is via acupuncture. Acupuncture has proven to be successful in treating various maladies, and seasonal allergies are no different. Continue reading to find out how acupuncture for allergies in Miami can make the indoors and outdoors safe again.
What Causes Allergies?
An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system overreacts to a normally harmless substance like pollen. Pollen triggers a defensive reaction in the body that leads to the various symptoms associated with airborne allergies. There are three different types of components that can cause an allergic reaction. They are:
- Reaction to an allergen (aka an antigenic protein) – in the case of airborne allergies, these come from pollen, animal dander, or dust mites.
- Immunoglobulin E (IgE for short) – this is an antibody protein produced by the body.
- A type of cell called a “mast cell”
When an allergy sufferer comes into contact with an allergen, the body produces a high volume of IgE antibodies to counter the allergen. The IgE antibodies then bind to the mast cells, which become linked by the allergen. This causes the mast cells to release chemicals called histamines, these histamines cause the runny nose, itching, and watery eyes associated with an allergic reaction.
Airborne Allergies and Their Symptoms
The Vectors of Airborne Allergies
- Pollen – This is one of the most common allergens and one of the most difficult to avoid. Each Summer, Spring, and Fall season, plants release particles, called pollen, into the air in order to fertilize the parts of other plants. This is how plants reproduce. Since the distribution of pollen is so widespread, it is only natural that some of it enters the nasal passages of people nearby.
- Mold – A type of fungus that grows in warm, damp environments like the kitchen or bath, mildew is one of the more commonly known types of mold. Mold releases spores into the air when it is disturbed, which can cause allergic reactions when it enters the nostrils. Some types of mold grow outside and some inside. However, not every type of mold causes allergies.
- Dust Mites – These are microscopic bugs that are related to spiders and ticks that live in house dust. They are commonly found in bedding material, carpets, upholstered furniture, and curtains and they feed on the flakes of skin shed by people and animals. Any activity that releases dust into the air, such as cleaning or vacuuming, can cause the dust mites to be inhaled and trigger an allergic reaction.
- Animal Dander – Animal allergies are caused by the oils secreted from glands in the animals’ skin, which sticks to their fur and is shed in their dander. Some animal allergens are also found in proteins in their saliva, it sticks to their fur when they lick themselves and causes allergic reactions when that fur is shed. Cats are particularly likely to cause allergies because they regularly lick themselves, spend a lot of time indoors, and are usually held by their owners.
The Symptoms of Allergies
- Allergic Rhinitis aka Hay Fever – The effects of hay fever are similar to those of a cold and include sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion
- Itchy eyes, nose, and throat
- Dark circles under the eyes
- Watery eyes
- Conjunctivitis – A swelling and redness of the eyes
How Acupuncture Can Help With Seasonal Allergies
Antihistamines are typically used to combat allergies, but they do not always work for everyone. However, medical trials have shown that acupuncture is an effective treatment for the various symptoms caused by Miami seasonal allergies. Recipients of the treatment report positive results even after the first acupuncture session, but anyone with chronic allergies may need at least two sessions per week for a few weeks.
If you live in Miami and are one of the many people who suffer from seasonal allergies that do not receive any relief from antihistamines, then you should seriously consider acupuncture for allergies. Miami residents should know that it is a safe, effective treatment that works quickly. With acupuncture treatment, there is no longer any reason to suffer through the rigors of a seemingly endless allergy season.
