Written by Donna Roberts, Master Practitioner of NLP, TLT & Hypnosis, Massage Therapist, Reiki Master, Seichim Practitioner, Advanced Soul Realignment Practitioner and Miriam’s admin guru.
Spring has sprung of late – although with the recent downpours and gale force winds, one may be forgiven for thinking winter was still here! That said, there are signs of new life blossoming all around us, and with these beautiful blossoms comes … pollen which is the biggest trigger for allergies. When these tiny grains are released into the air by trees, grasses, weeds and flowers, they can get into the nose of someone who is allergic, and send their body’s defences haywire. The immune system mistakes the pollen for a dangerous substance, and releases antibodies to attack the allergen, leading to the release of histamines into the blood. These then trigger the runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing and coughing that will be all too familiar if you have allergies.
It is important to remember that pollen can travel for many kilometres on the wind, and the pollen count tends to be much higher on breezy days. Rainy days, on the other hand, wash the allergens away.
Diagnosis of an allergy is usually done by a skin test, where a tiny amount of diluted allergens are placed on to the skin, and the skin pricked with a needle. Alternatively, a tiny amount of the diluted allergen is injected under the skin. A small red bump (a wheal or hive) will form at the site of the allergens that the person is allergic to.
Treatment is usually via anti-histamines, which reduce the amount of histamine in the body, or via decongestants, which shrink the blood vessels in the nasal passageways to relieve congestion and swelling. Some products will combine both of these mechanisms. The issue with these treatments is that they are short acting, and need to be taken regularly to keep the symptoms at bay.
Other advice for managing allergies includes staying inside when the pollen count is high, keeping doors and windows closed; making sure air filters are regularly cleaned, and keeping corners in bookcases and the like, as well as vents where pollen can collect. Washing your hair after being outside is also useful, as allergens can get caught there. Vacuuming regularly, but wearing a mask, can also assist.
The big question is “is there a long term method that can help me with my allergies, rather than just treating the symptoms?” And, the answer is yes! There is an NLP process that can significantly reduce the symptoms of allergy, and in some cases, remove them completely, although for this to work, it is important to know the trigger for the allergy.
If you would like some help with your allergies, make an appointment to see Miriam today!