Most of us know that chiropractic care can help people with chronic pain, joint issues, and alignment or posture problems. But did you know some patients also report relief from allergy symptoms? With spring underway, millions of Americans are struggling with seasonal allergies and irritation caused by airborne pollen.
Due to high pollen counts in many areas around the nation, doctors are predicting a busy allergy season this year. Whether you’re already struggling with allergy symptoms or are prone to seasonal flare-ups, it may be time to make a chiropractic appointment.
What Causes Allergy Issues?
The nuanced ins and outs of how allergies work are still debated. One of the more common beliefs is that increased susceptibility to allergic reactions to environmental factors may be linked to high levels of mental and emotional stress. Both stress and allergies create similar inflammation in the body, and heightened stress can increase your body’s reaction to allergens.
This issue may be tied to cortisol — a hormone that fights inflammation. The body produces excess cortisol and wears out the glands when under prolonged stress, interfering with its natural ability to reduce inflammation.
It is also possible that allergy symptoms are affected by miscommunication between the spine and brain. If a spinal bone is misaligned, inflammation can result. The brain then receives signals that may create allergy-like symptoms.
While there is a lack of concrete medical studies linking chiropractic care to reduced allergy symptoms, many chiropractic professionals report an improvement in their patients’ allergies while under chiropractic care.
[Related: Four Simple Spring Wellness Tips]
How Does Chiropractic Care Reduce Allergy Symptoms?
Chiropractic care can help improve quality of life for allergy sufferers in a number of ways. Patients who receive hands-on therapies such as those administered during a chiropractic care regimen often report reduced levels of stress and muscular tension. This can help your body better regulate its responses to allergens.
Additionally, sometimes subluxation of the spine can cause issues similar to those created by allergies. Regular adjustments can help correct subluxation, improve communication between the spine and brain, and even strengthen your immune system.
Your chiropractor can also help you make lifestyle and diet changes that could reduce allergic reactions and inflammation. Combine that with reduced stress hormones, allowing your body to naturally combat inflammation, and the potential for serious relief increases. If medications alone aren’t controlling your allergy symptoms, chiropractic care may help you get them under control.
Contact Spencer Chiropractic Center today with any questions about how we can help your allergy symptoms!