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Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is a common allergic condition affecting the nasal passages. It occurs when the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold spores.
This immune response triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals, causing inflammation and irritation in the nasal passages, throat, and eyes.
Treatment Focus Areas:
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Symptoms
Common symptoms of allergic rhinitis include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, nose, or throat, watery eyes, and postnasal drip. Headaches, sinus pressure, fatigue, and irritability may also occur.
Types
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Seasonal allergic rhinitis: Triggered by outdoor allergens like pollen, typically occurring during specific seasons.
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Perennial allergic rhinitis: Symptoms occur year-round due to indoor allergens like dust mites and pet dander.
Treatment provided by Vaidyamrit Ayurveda:
Ayurveda views allergic rhinitis as an imbalance of the body's doshas, particularly Vata and Kapha. The goal of Ayurvedic treatment is to restore dosha balance, detoxify the body, and strengthen the immune system through a holistic approach.
Treatment principles
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Ayurvedic treatment for allergic rhinitis focuses on balancing doshas, strengthening immunity, and eliminating toxins.
Therapeutic approaches
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Panchakarma Therapies: These cleansing therapies aim to remove toxins. Examples include Nasya (nasal oil administration), Vamana (therapeutic vomiting), Virechana (purgation), Dhoomapana (herbal smoke inhalation), Shirodhara (pouring oil on the forehead), and Swedana (steam therapy).
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Herbal Remedies: Various herbs and formulations are used for their anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, and immune-boosting properties. Some examples include Turmeric, Tulasi, Ashwagandha, Ginger.
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Dietary Modifications: Dietary changes involve consuming warm, light, and easily digestible foods while avoiding Kapha-aggravating foods like dairy, heavy, oily, cold, and processed items. Including spices and staying hydrated with warm water are also recommended.
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Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoiding allergens, practicing good hygiene, managing stress with techniques like yoga and meditation, ensuring adequate sleep, and practicing breathing exercises (Pranayama) are important lifestyle adjustments.
Benefits
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Ayurvedic treatment for allergic rhinitis aims for long-term symptom relief, improved quality of life, and reduced reliance on conventional medication by addressing the root cause. Research has indicated that specific Ayurvedic interventions can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.