The Allergy-Immune System Connection

Unlike what most people think, allergies aren't caused by pollens, dust mites, dander, or other such allergens.  It definitely true that these substances trigger allergic responses in susceptible people, but the real cause is a malfunctioning immune system.  These allergic substances simply trigger an inappropriate immune response.  Your immune system thinks the allergen is a dangerous invader, and tries to destroy it.  In response, we experience all the allergy symptoms that are so familiar: itchy eyes, runny nose, scratchy throat, etc.  These signs mean that our immune system is mistakenly fighting against harmless substances, and this sometimes interferes with our ability to fight against infections (which are often subclinical).  Auto-immune diseases are sometimes viewed as a severe allergy in that the immune system is truly attacking its owner.

Honestly, there isn't much that can be done if all you're doing is chasing the symptoms.  Antihistamines do suppress the symptoms, but taking them is like turning off the smoke alarm when your house is on fire, would that actually help the situation?  This would eliminate the uncomfortable reminder that your house is on fire, but it wouldn't put the fire out.  Some of you will try 'allergy shots'.  They can have unintended consequences and work by trying to trick the immune system.  While they may help some individuals deal with allergens that float in the air, such as pollens (trees, grass, weeds), and cat dander, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that there is not enough research to support using them for other types of allergic triggers such as food allergies and skin reactions.  In starting allergy shot treatments, multiple skin allergy tests are required before you begin the shots, which can take years to complete and are only effective for a period of time.  The question you need to asking yourself is, "Why am I reacting to my environment in this way?"..."What about my immune system has gotten off track?"

The best way to start is to get a good foundational health analysis to determine your state of health.  An important marker to consider is blood levels of protein.  Are you getting enough?  Protein plays a very important role in your immune system's attempts to fight its battles.  If you are deficient, it can cause your immune system to malfunction.  The body needs to produce protein-based substances rapidly to defend the body.  A good foundational analysis will also reveal your individual nutrient and mineral status.  By correcting any deficiencies in these areas with proper diet and supplementation therapies, you will be bringing several systems of the body back into balance, including the immune system.  Also included in your foundational analysis should be a check for levels of metals that are too high in your body.  When these problems are fixed, and the body is in greater balance, allergy symptoms can subside due to a better functioning immune system.

In the meantime, there are several things you can do this "allergy season" to help get you through.  HEPA air filters can be run in your bedroom at night, and this is a great way to reduce exposure and get more restful and reparative sleep.  Be sure to keep your bedroom door shut.

Another big issue when it comes to allergies is dairy.  In both children and adults, diary can set off big reactions.  Even if you don't think you react to dairy normally, during the allergy season it can push your immune system "over the edge".  In 1994, a study in Pediatric-Allergy-Immunology stated that: "Formula-fed babies, at the age of three months, were secreting low levels of serum antibodies to bovine proteins contained in their formula...most formula fed infants developed symptoms of ALLERGIC rejection to cow milk proteins before one month of age. About 50-70% experienced rashes or other skin symptoms, 50-60% gastrointestinal symptoms, and 20-30% respiratory symptoms. The recommended therapy is to avoid cow's milk."

Regarding supplementation, we have had good success with D-Hist by Orthomolecular.  It can provide symptomatic relief of seasonal allergies.  Many patients start with 6 per day (150 lb adult). You can also try Vitamin C.  It has natural antihistamine effects.  2,000-4,000mg per day can be used regularly, and up to 10,000mg per day can be used during flare-ups.  There is no concern about toxicity with Vitamin C, but if you ramp up taking it too quickly, you may experience loose stools.  Break up your dose throughout the day and increase slowly from day to day.

We hope you try these natural solutions.  These are time-tested, natural methods that can provide relief of symptoms without the side-effects.  However, wouldn't it be best to stop these problems before they become more serious?  Rather than trial and error, wouldn't it be best to objectively test to discover what might be causing the problem from the beginning?  We encourage you to consult with a doctor that can perform a nutritionally-focused metabolic analysis, which can show you how healthy you really are, what diseases you have (and may not know it), and how you can begin to get healthier now.

Federal Law requires that we warn you of the following:   1. The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only.   2. Your individual health status and any required health care treatments can only be properly addressed by a professional healthcare provider of your choice. Remember: There is no adequate substitution for a personal consultation with your chosen health care provider. Therefore, we encourage you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional.

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Dr. Jonathan McClaren is a Chiropractic Physician practicing in Portland, Oregon. He provides natural, non-drug therapies for allergy and asthma patients in his Portland, Oregon metro area clinic, Allergy & Asthma Wellness Center. http://www.allergyasthmawellness.com