The word allergy means hypersensitive reaction to specific substances that cause an immune system response. Allergies can be triggered by anything you come into contact with either in the environment, food, or in your home. A person with allergies experiences symptoms in a variety of ways, including itchy watery eyes, hives or other skin rashes, sneezing, headaches, stuffy sinuses or diarrhea. You may be surprised at the types of illnesses and discomforts that may actually be caused by allergies, including:

• Eczema
• Bed-wetting
• Migraines
• Bowel problems
• Trouble concentrating/mood disorders
• Low blood sugar
• Chronic ear infections
• Grinding teeth

 

Asthma is one of the major illnesses that may be caused by allergies. Asthma is divided into two types:

• Intrinsic asthma is characterized by spasm of the airway passages in the lungs that occurs in response to a physical irritant i.e.: exercise, environment, chemicals, cold air and emotional issues.
• Extrinsic asthma is an allergic disorder and is associated with the immune system’s response to an allergy.

Both types are characterized by a difficulty in breathing, coughing, wheezing and thick mucous in the lung passageways. Asthma can be life-threatening and, during an acute attack, you should seek immediate medical attention.

When dealing with allergic conditions, including asthma, a naturopathic doctor will review your food intake, lifestyle and overall health. The goal is to support the immune system and strengthen the entire body to respond more appropriately to its environment. Ensuring proper digestion is another important factor in eliminating allergies. Often herbs, vitamins and homeopathic medicines are prescribed to help heal and strengthen the body.

There are many naturopathic treatments available that help people deal with symptoms in acute episodes of allergies, as well as help prevent them in the first place by strengthening the individual’s immune system, making the patient less vulnerable to his or her environment.

Asthma is an inflammation producing disease, which is stressful to the part of the body affected by the inflammation, in this case the lungs, but it also weakens the immune system overtime. Using herbs, simple dietary changes and often other nutritional supplements you can alleviate inflammation. Once the inflammation is resolved, you can focus your treatments on strengthening the lungs and improving your overall immune system function.