Your allergies are acting up again. Your eyes are red and itchy, you sneeze, and as you reach for an antihistamine you think maybe it's time to see someone. Should you see an allergist, or the acupuncturist your friend recommended? Both begin with the letter "A" but that's about all they have in common.
Acupuncture is an ancient Eastern healing practice that involves stimulating points on the body with thin needles. These needles are sterile, disposable and thinner than a pin. The procedure is safe and painless if it's done properly. According to the Food and Drug Administration, few complications have been reported with acupuncture.
But, should you choose the needles of an acupuncturist over the needles of allergy shots? So far there's no strong scientific evidence that acupuncture works to treat allergies. But it is still being studied for this and a variety of other conditions.
Allergy medications don't work for everyone either. The drugs may cause side effects or react poorly with other medications. The next step is often allergy shots. They work well for many but involve years of getting regular shots. Or, perhaps you don't want to start medication and are willing to try something else, even if it's a long shot as long as it's not harmful.
What's the theory behind acupuncture for allergies?
Acupuncturists believe that allergy symptoms are a way of expressing a deeper imbalance in a person's system.
Whether acupuncture might control allergies isn't known. But it doesn't use chemicals like an antihistamine to control an allergic reaction. Instead, the theory is that acupuncture alters your "internal pharmacy."
Acupuncturists suggest that acupuncture stimulates the body's immune system. And, since allergies are an immune response, they feel that boosting the immune system through acupuncture may help fight allergies. More studies must be done to see if this treatment is effective.
Combination approach to treatment
Even if you decide to try acupuncture, you don't have to ignore Western medicine entirely. Acupuncture can be used alone, or along with conventional drugs. Some acupuncturists may recommend environmental controls, just as allergists do. This means avoiding certain foods, not going outside when pollen counts are high or vacuuming with a special HEPA filter. Such controls can reduce exposure to certain allergens.
If you start feeling better, tell your doctor. He or she can adjust the dose or type of medication you are taking if it's appropriate.
If you're thinking about trying acupuncture for your allergies, talk to your doctor first and ask for a referral. Make sure your acupuncturist is registered or licensed in your state and uses sterile, disposable needles.
Also check with your insurance company. Many do not cover complementary or alternative treatments unless they have been proven to be effective.
