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About Hay Fever

Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen and therefore is common in spring and summer. Typical symptoms include itchy eyes, blocked or runny nose, sneezing fits and breathing problems. Some people react in a similar way to house dust and animals such as cats, dogs and horses. About 9 million people in Britain suffer from hay fever and most rely on anti-histamines to get through the pollen season.

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Chinese Medicine View

According to Chinese Medicine, hayfever is a condition of atopy (a form of hypersensitivity) and is very successfully treated using Chinese herbs. Hayfever is usually attributed to a deficiency of Qi and an invasion of Wind-Heat in the lung. Symptoms vary from patient to patient and the prescription will be based on the experiences and symptoms of the individual, but in general the aim of the treatment will be to open the lung Qi to expel the Wind-Heat. Patients are given a herbal prescription which is specific to their condition and will be altered as the symptoms change

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Treatment Options

Acupuncture and Chinese herbs. Chinese medicine is very effective in treating allergies. In a comparative study on treating Type I allergic diseases, acupuncture and desensitisation therapies were used in 143 cases. The outcome showed that acupuncture had an extensive and remarkable effect on Type I allergic reactions. The curative effect was higher in the acupuncture group than in the desensitisation group (Journal of TCM, 1993 Dec.).

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Lifestyle Advice

As hay fever is fundamentally the result of a weakness in the immune system, Chinese medicine aims primarily to strengthen it with treatment as well as changes in life style and diet. Regular physical exercises and immune boosting food and herbs are as important as the treatment. A course of 4 weeks� treatment before the pollen season starts can often prevent hay fever or reduce the severity of its symptoms significantly.

For personalised advice on diet and lifestyle, please ask the doctor during your consultation. Please be reminded that chinalife offers free health advice. [LINK]

-> Click here to contact us using our 'Online Health Advice' Form

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Case History

"I came because I have suffered from severe allergies all my life - terrible hayfever, swelling, bad eyes (itchy/sore)... I have taken a six week course of acupuncture, herbs, teas and royal jelly. I have not taken more than four antihistamines in that period. Before I came I was taking more than four antihistamines per day. I have not had any symptoms (i.e no sneezing/nose running/streaming) although my eyes are sensitive and can be sore. Which is an enormous improvement. I have been surprised at the speed of effectiveness of the treatment."

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