As the flowers bloom and the days grow longer, many of us welcome the arrival of spring with open arms. However, for some, the onset of spring also brings along the dreaded seasonal allergies. The itchy eyes, runny nose, and constant sneezing can put a damper on the joys of the season. While over-the-counter medications advertise relief, many do not realize the side effects of these drugs. In this blog post, we’ll expose the risks of over-the-counter drugs and explore the role of chiropractic care in combatting seasonal allergies.
Understanding Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, occur when your immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, grass, and mold spores that are more prevalent during the springtime. Common symptoms include:
- Sinus Congestion
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Headache
The Risks of Over-the-Counter Allergy Medications
Over the counter (OTC) allergy drugs are readily accessible, but they don’t come without risks.
- These medications may only offer temporary relief and can mask underlying allergy symptoms, potentially delaying proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Misuse or overuse of OTC allergy drugs can lead to adverse effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, and blurred vision, impacting daily functioning and safety. Prolonged use may also result in tolerance, where the body becomes less responsive to the medication’s effects, necessitating higher doses for relief. According to a study published by the National Library of Medicine, a person can become addicted to antihistamine and it can cause withdrawal symptoms.
- Individuals with certain medical conditions or taking other medications should consult healthcare professionals before using OTC allergy drugs to avoid potential drug interactions and complications.
Chiropractic Care for Allergy Relief
Chiropractic care can play a significant role in managing seasonal allergies. While chiropractic adjustments primarily focus on the spine, they can also help improve the function of the nervous system, which controls the immune response.
- Spinal Alignment: Misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations, can interfere with the nervous system’s ability to communicate effectively with the rest of the body, including the immune system. Chiropractic adjustments can correct these misalignments, promoting optimal nervous system function.
- Immune System Support: By enhancing nervous system function, chiropractic care can help support a healthy immune response, potentially reducing the severity of allergy symptoms.
- Overall Wellness:Chiropractic care is not just about treating symptoms; it’s about promoting overall wellness and optimal function of the body. Chiropractic care can help reduce the frequency and severity of allergic reactions by addressing underlying issues and promoting balance within the body.
What to Expect on Your First Visit to Carolina Rehab & Physical Medicine Center
A visit to our office begins with a thorough assessment of your condition and health history. This assessment helps Dr. Stickland identify the root causes of your problem or pain.
Your exam is pain-free and non-invasive. We take the time to discuss your concerns, consider all underlying health conditions, and even study your movement to look for signs of functional challenges.
From there, we can recommend a treatment plan to resolve the pain and restore movement quickly and effectively. In addition to addressing allergy symptoms, we can address a wide range of issues, including:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Knee pain
- Shoulder pain
- Elbow pain
- Joint pain
- Hip pain
- Sciatica
- Headaches and migraines
Our chiropractic services focus on quick, long-lasting pain relief. Your treatment will include a series of chiropractic adjustments targeting your troubled areas. We will perform your first adjustment at your first appointment based on our findings. Chiropractic adjustments use gentle movements to help ease misalignments of the spine and joints back into their proper position.
Our goal is to find the fastest path to recovery and pain relief. That can include chiropractic adjustments and spinal decompression with the state-of-the-art Accu Spina Therapy.
We will set your treatment schedule to suit your busy schedule. Some people can receive adjustments that can correct their issues in just a few appointments, while others will require a more extended treatment plan in hand with additional pain relief methods. Whatever your case is, we’ll suggest options for the quickest path to recovery.
Conclusion: Navigating Allergy Season with Chiropractic Care
While seasonal allergies can damper your springtime festivities, chiropractic care can help alleviate symptoms and support your overall health and well-being. By addressing your allergies with chiropractic care, you can enjoy the beauty of spring without the discomfort of allergies holding you back. If you’re interested in exploring chiropractic care as part of your allergy management plan, please contact us to discuss your options and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Here’s to a happy and healthy spring season!
Contact us today for a complimentary consultation.
Craig Strickland, DC
Carolina Rehab and Physical Medicine Center
1539 Highway 17, Little River, SC 29566