Understanding the Nuts and Bolts of Allergies and Asthma: What Goes Wrong and What You Can Do About It
~By Diane Resnick, Doctor of Chiropractic
Itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, skin that grows red and itchy, difficulty breathing, wheezing, swollen lips and throat; these are some of the irritating symptoms of an allergic reaction. Over 50 million Americans suffer from allergies and asthma making it the number one chronic health problem in the U.S today.
Allergies are the result of a hypersensitive immune system. Antibodies signal your white blood cells to destroy harmless substances. An inflammatory reaction leads to swelling, redness, increased heat, mucus production and muscle tightening or airway constriction. It is this inflammatory response that creates most of the symptoms associated with allergies.
Similar to allergies, asthma is a chronic condition wherein proper lung function is disabled by an overactive immune system. The breathing passageways become inflamed, mucus production is increased and breathing muscles become tightened. Interestingly, the majority of asthmatics also have allergies.
Food allergies are similar to other allergies but do not have a pharmaceutically-based treatment; avoidance is the only sure method to prevent an attack. Symptoms may occur immediately or take up to an hour to develop and include hives, eczema, difficulty breathing or swallowing, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting and even asthma attacks. Most people with food allergies rarely have more than three offending food items.
Common food allergens include peanuts and other tree nuts, shellfish, dairy products, eggs, soy products, and wheat. The most common plant and environmental allergens are plant pollens, mold spores, dust mite excrement, and proteins found on animal dander. The pollen season extends from March to September in California. Mold season occurs from spring through late summer but spores are able to survive indoors throughout the year. That leaves October through February as relatively pollen-free, mold-free months. A bit of relief just in time for cold and flu season!
Think you may have asthma or an allergy? Considering that many people with these conditions think their symptoms are due to colds or flu, it’s wise to seek a diagnosis from a primary health care practitioner who is knowledgeable about the differences. More importantly, there are some significant medical conditions whose symptoms may mimic those of asthma. Attempting to self-diagnose your problem may lead to delays in appropriate treatment or more serious consequences.
There are many things you can do to decrease your exposure to allergens and irritants.
Dust regularly using a damp cloth and use HEPA microfiltration in air purifiers and vacuums
Change heating and air conditioning system air filters regularly and clean air ducts when needed
Encase your mattress and pillow in covers that keep out dust mites
Use dry steam cleaning for carpets and upholstery
Consider replacing carpeting with wood flooring, laminates or tile
Use 1 part bleach to 10 parts water to clean mold from shower surfaces
Keep pets out of bedrooms at all times and bath/groom them outside the home
If you have an aquarium, wipe down the inside of the hood weekly
Eliminate offending foods from the diet; it’s the only sure way to avoid an allergic reaction.
Avoid omega-6 fatty acids found in processed foods and meat and dairy products that can amplify inflammatory reactions
Eat foods like cultured yogurt that contain helpful bacteria and decrease inflammation
Consume a phytochemically-rich diet that includes fruits, vegetables, tea and wine
Magnesium, selenium, vitamin B6 and molybdenum have demonstrated positive effects for those with asthma
If you’re like 60% of asthmatics and 45% of those with allergies, you may be interested in trying natural treatments either in addition to medically-prescribed treatment or as an alternative. Chiropractic, acupuncture, homeopathy and relaxation therapies such as biofeedback, yoga, meditation, hypnosis, visualization and massage are all safe alternatives that may alleviate your symptoms. Additionally, herbs and supplements such as bromelain, dried ivy leaf extract, chamomile, peppermint, ginkgo biloba, pycnogenol, grape seed extract, and stinging nettle may be helpful; always consult a health care professional if you are considering taking herbs or other supplements. Additionally, avoid glucosamine chondroitin, melatonin, bee pollen and lobelia supplements if you have asthma as they may exacerbate your condition.
Our latest El Niño weather system may be great for gardeners but it heralds a season of misery for those with allergies and asthma. Go on the offense in terms of taking triggers out of your home and work environment. When allergies or asthma get the best of you, use a defensive strategy with some of the recommended therapies suggested in this article. Always consult with your health care professional regarding questions you may have and any course of treatment you may be considering. Being proactive and prepared for the coming allergy and asthma season will make you less of a captive and more of a captain over your internal environment.
