Northgate Chiropractic Presents: Tips for Allergies

It’s starting to look more and more like spring outside. The grass is starting to get greener, the birds are starting to sing in the morning, and the first flowers of the season are starting to show. However, if you are one of the approximately 40 million Americans suffering from allergies , chances are the new growth and budding flowers may well be accompanied by sneezing, sniffling, and wheezing.

Allergies are actually an over-reaction of your immune system to a foreign substance (in this case, pollen). This causes the over-production of neutralizing chemicals like histamines which results in the itchy eyes, stuffy noses, sinus headaches, and sneezes we all know so well.

Unfortunately there is no known cure for allergies and immune system disease, so doctors can only provide relief from symptoms with prescribed or over the counter treatments like anti-histamines. Although these options reduce the swelling and irritation that is the root of most allergy-related discomfort, sometimes the side effects can be worse then the actual allergies. These side effects can include dry mouth, nausea, trouble urinating, confusion, or even blurred vision.

Although chiropractic does not directly treat disease, it does help relieve stress to the nervous system, which in turn helps the immune system function more effectively

Imagine that your spine and the various nerves that run along it are similar to a freeway. When all the components are in alignment, everything is able to run smoothly and easily. However if there is even minor road work or an accident, everything gets backed up and stuck. Similarly, when your body is out of alignment, it gets backed up and ends up having to work harder to function.

If you find yourself falling victim to seasonal sneezing, it may just be time to treat your body to an adjustment and discover what regular chiropractic care can do for you.