Allergies are extremely common in Melbourne, we have been called the allergy capital of the world! A large percentage of us will suffer from symptoms affecting the nose, eyes, throat and ears.
The warmer months can be a terrible time for those unlucky enough to be affected, especially if you have allergies to grasses and to our plane trees which is very common. You will undoubtedly know all of the over the counter medicines available. However, you might be surprised to learn that osteopathic treatment can help with hay fever and allergy symptoms, and for some sufferers, it may reduce the need for over-the-counter remedies.
Allergic reactions begin in the immune system. Your immune system produces substances known as antibodies, and when you have allergies, your immune system makes antibodies that identify a particular allergen as harmful. This system can be overly sensitive and can over-react to even harmless substances, and allergies are the result. The resulting reaction can inflame your skin, sinuses, airways or digestive system.
This can link in with your auto immune system. If having higher stressors like work place stress and if this is more chronic, your system gets overly excited. You create more cortisol and adrenaline (the stress hormones), and this stimulates your fight or flight nervous system. This affects your immune system, and can link in with your over sensitivity to allergens.
Osteopathy can help to calm your autonomic nerve system by stimulating the parasympathetic system that is the opposite to the fight or flight system. (the sympathetic system). This can be achieved by treating specific areas of your body that targets these nerves, as well as appropriate advice for the home and certain exercises that stimulate your calming nerves, the parasympathetics. This in term can help your immune system!
Essentially, your immune system is incredibly sensitive and often needs some support to restore it to optimal function, especially in stressful times. Some proven natural ways to support this response can also include good sleep, meditation, healthy food and disconnecting from technology.
