Allergic reactions have been known for thousands of years. The first Egyptian Pharaoh known as “Menes” is believed to have died as a result of a bee sting in 5000 BC. Chinese and Greek physicians wrote about different kind of allergic reactions.
The immune system is normally responsible for recognizing and defending against foreign substances and invaders without any consequences. Under abnormal conditions, the immune system may mistakenly consider certain harmless substances a threat. The immune system will then produce specific antibodies against these substances known as Immunoglobulin E (IgE). Subsequent exposure to these substances will lead to an allergic reaction.
Food allergy
A common type of allergies develops as the body reacts to some of the proteins contained in food. Shellfish, fish, wheat products, cow’s milk, eggs, soy products, and nuts are among the food items commonly responsible for allergic reactions.
Environmental allergies
Many environmental factors can contribute to allergic reactions in humans. Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, can be caused by pollen, mold, dust, dust mites, and animal dander. There are so many different types of pollen that we frequently are allergic to. Trees, flowers, grasses, and ragweed could be sources of various types of pollen. People could be allergic to certain types pollen and not others. Since they are variety of pollen, you could be allergic to one or more but not all types.
Allergy to mold is not uncommon. Mold can be found outdoors as well as indoors. Outdoors mold could be found in logs and falling leaves. Fungal spores (mold) are also found inside homes especially in moist places. People also develop allergy to pets’ dander, saliva, urine, fur, and feathers. Allergy to household dust and dust mites are common.
Other allergies
Allergy can develop to various drugs, vaccines, and even to allergy shots and various medications routinely used to treat allergy such as steroids and antihistamines.
Asthma
Allergic asthma though common in all ages, mostly affects children and young adults. Patients suffering from asthma usually suffer from other allergic conditions. Allergy to mold and the dust mites are common causes of asthma.
Eczema
Eczema is common in children, as well as in adults, and could be the result of various allergies.
Chronic cough
Chronic cough though has many possible causes, allergy could be a major cause.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe form of allergic reactions, that could occur suddenly and constitute a medical emergency that needs immediate attention. Certain foods seem to be more responsible than others in precipitating such attacks. Insect stings, various medicinal drugs, and latex could also induce anaphylactic shock.
Symptoms
Allergy symptoms vary widely, it may affect the skin or other bodily structures causing unpleasant reactions. Symptoms of allergy include; tingling or itching around the mouth, hives, swelling of the lips, face, tongue, and the throat. Wheezing and nasal congestion could also be seen. Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and a diarrhea are common intestinal symptoms. Dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting may also occur. Respiratory symptoms include; shortness of breath, asthma, cough, hoarseness, and chest tightness. Cardiovascular symptoms include; fainting, dizziness, pulse irregularities, and change in blood pressure. Nervous system symptoms include; anxiety, dizziness, and confusion.
Medical diagnosis
Skin test and blood test.
Medical treatment
Avoiding known allergens, if possible, is the best possible way to avoid the development of allergy symptoms. Antihistamines are frequently used to treat allergy but has the drawback of inducing drowsiness. Steroids are used for more serious allergic conditions. Epinephrine injections “EpiPen” are needed to treat anaphylactic shock.
How we can help
Various methods of acupuncture have been used to help ameliorate the various symptoms of allergies. At this center, a very unique approach of acupuncture treatment introduced and patented by Dr. Nader Soliman has proved to be the Zenith of all known acupuncture approaches. Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment (SAAT), as it is known, is a simple technique using only one needle and requires only one treatment for any particular allergen (substance causing allergic reaction). This technique has proven to provide the strongest relief from allergy symptoms among all known acupuncture techniques.
Reading Material
Successful Treatment for Alpha Gal Mammal Product Allergy Using Auricular Acupuncture: A Case Series