Asthma Trouble? Acupuncture Might Help
Spring in the Yakima Valley has been difficult for those with sensitive respiratory systems this year – more so than in previous years. Pollen counts have been holding steady in the medium-high to very high ranges since the beginning of last month. Asthma sufferers are particularly impacted as their symptoms are largely triggered by allergens such as tree and grass pollens.
Research recently detailed in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine suggests that receiving routine regimens of acupuncture, when paired with standard asthma treatments, decreases the symptoms of asthma to an even great effect than standard asthma treatments alone.
The study on which this research was based assessed over 1,400 patients with allergen-induced asthma. Using a quality of life questionnaire upon the study’s conclusion, it was found that those who received the acupuncture treatments had experienced an improvement in their symptoms when compared to a control group.
This is likely due to acupuncture’s tendency to release feel good chemicals (known as endorphins) within the body, which, in the case of asthma, relaxes airways and constricted muscles in the neck and chest regions of the body. An overall reduction of stress within the body permits a strengthening of the immune system which further calms the reactivity to allergenic stimuli.
If you’re suffering from an increase of asthma symptoms, consider trying a regimen of acupuncture to help lessen the severity. You may find that it will reduce your need to administer albuterol daily, as well as your usage of antihistamines and other such products.
And while you’re here, ask us which herbal remedies may help promote better overall respiratory health!
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