Clinically we are seeing more cases of respiratory conditions in the clinic, especially hay fever that is triggered by the change in seasons and by environmental irritants. The symptoms of hay fever can be very annoying and have adverse effects for ones social life and career. Hay fever can make you look teary and the constant sneezing can be annoying to yourself and colleagues. Many hay fever sufferers complain of constant tiredness and of being run down, this is because the body's immune system is constantly fighting environmental allergens.

At Metro Chinese Medicine Clinic we have a two pronged approach to the treatment of respiratory problems. Firstly we use pills and tinctures that are quick acting and convenient to use, these can be carried with you and used daily to help relieve the primary symptoms. The second strategy is to prevent hay fever from occurring during the next season. This way we treat the underlying cause of the hay fever which is usually due to a depressed immune function. Usually people who suffer from hay fever have a weakness in the lungs. Sufferers will often complain that they catch frequent colds, catching whatever bug's going around the office. Others may complain of tiredness no matter how much rest they get or just waking up feeling tired despite a restful sleep.

In Chinese Medicine we use herbs and acupuncture to strengthen the lungs capacity and build up immunity. A great side effect of this treatment is that your energy increases and you become less reliant on antihistamines. Patients note results within just two or three treatments and symptoms generally don't go back to the 'way things used to be' once treatment is stopped. Patients usually will notice a decrease in the severity of sneezing very early on in treatment, with a decreasing reliance on expensive pharmaceuticals. So if you or your friends or colleagues are suffering, give Chinese Medicine a try.