A Natural Approach to Allergy Season

It’s going to be a long allergy season, thanks to a mild winter. The many plants that thrive in comfortable temperatures mean more pollen. This results in most people running to gather the usual supplies needed to make it through another season. Many may be content with this approach, but are probably unaware of the serious side effects or that other options exist.

Over-the-counter or prescribed antihistamines should be treated with caution, especially with long-term use. One study suggests an association between antihistamines and an increased chance of dementia. A valid concern that many choose to ignore is the amount of drowsiness these medications can cause. This either leaves people to suffer during the day to avoid the drowsiness or take unnecessary chances with driving or work performance.

Mild sufferers have the option of natural supplements. Stinging nettle naturally helps control histamines; it also helps with itchy eyes and runny noses. Quercetin also helps stabilize the release of histamines. Butterbur can help with asthma and migraines. Probiotics help support the immune system, and a healthy immune system is a lot less likely to over-respond to a harmless antigen.

Moderate and severe sufferers will benefit from the listed supplements above; however, they will need to consider a more proactive approach. Instead of waiting to treat the symptom, there are programs that teach the body not to overreact to a stimulus, thus eliminating the need for any medication or supplements. These are called desensitizing programs. They involve some time on the patient’s part, but the results are most worth it. There are two options. One requires weekly office visits to receive a shot, and the other involves the patient administering the sublingual therapy at home. Both revolve around the same principle of introducing minuscule amounts of antigens and increasing the amount slowly over time. This teaches the immune system not to fear these harmless trespassers. The body stops producing excessive histamines, therefore, most, if not all, symptoms disappear. The sublingual drops are completely natural and are completely safe for even young children. Drops under the tongue mean zero pain and no weekly doctor visits.   

Allergy symptoms are the result of the immune system over-responding to something that’s found its way into a person’s body. By balancing one’s immune system, the source of the symptoms are being treated. Consulting with a naturopath will provide even more natural options for allergy relief. Homeopathic remedies are an excellent option for anyone of any age. A knowledgeable practitioner will be able to customize a therapy for an individual’s exact symptoms. If needed, a naturopath can even administer intravenous nutrients that will super charge a person’s immune system. Many people find quick relief with a tailored intravenous vitamin treatment, as it can provide nutrients like energy-boosting vitamin B12 directly into the blood supply.

There are safe, natural and effective treatments for anyone suffering with allergy symptoms. It’s not too late to begin a desensitizing program, and a customized supplement program should provide rapid relief.

Paul Stallone, NMD, founded the Arizona Integrative Medical Center, located at 8144 E. Cactus Rd., Ste. 820, in Scottsdale. He combines natural/alternative/conventional treatments for each patient’s needs. For more information, call 480-214-3922 or visit DrStallone.com.