Asthma is a disease which is characterised by breathing difficulties. Respiratory symptoms include – wheeze; shortness of breath; chest tightness; cough which varies in intensity and over time; and, pressure on airflow during exhalation. Symptoms may be triggered by respiratory infections, allergens or changes in the weather. Acupuncture boosts the immune system to reduce inflammation and to clear mucus build-up; reduces discomfort, tightness, sensitivity and pain in the chest and lungs; opens up airways to increase ease of breathing; and, calms and strengthens the respiratory system to prevent symptoms from recurring in the future. Combined with herbs, acupuncture can modulate the immune response to reduce the effect of inflammation in the chest and lungs.
Allergies occur as a result of the immune system’s reaction to certain allergens, for example dust, pollen, animals, pollution. Allergies can cause nasal inflammation along with related symptoms, such as congestion and stuffy nose; itchy eyes; and, sneezing. Acupuncture is used to reduce the acute symptoms of inflammation, congestion and stuffy nose; treat the underlying imbalances in the body to reduce its reactions to allergens; and, combined with dietary modification and Chinese herbal medicine boost the body’s immune system.
Sinus infections can occur for a variety of reasons causing the nasal passages to become infected which can cause the following symptoms – thick, discolored discharge from the nose; pain, tenderness and swelling around the eyes, nose, cheeks and forehead; drainage down the back of the throat (postnasal drainage); difficulty breathing through the nose; and, reduced sense of smell and taste. Infections can be occasional and intermittent or develop to become chronic conditions. The aim of acupuncture is to clear the sinus infection thoroughly to create long-term resilience to infection; along with alleviating the associated symptoms. Acupuncture relieves the nasal congestion and reduces facial pain and pressure; drains the infection to clear obstruction; reduces nasal inflammation; and, supports the immune system.