Most people suffer from allergies in one way or another. But what’s alarming is that millions of individuals go untreated for their allergies. Why? Some people simply don’t consider allergies a serious issue. Others aren’t aware of their options. And some know that their current treatments aren’t doing the job, but they don’t know where to go.
If you live in California and suffer from allergies, then it’s time you learned about functional medicine for allergies.
Functional medicine offers a promising approach to treating allergies by focusing on the root cause of your symptoms. Antihistamines can only do so much. Many people instead need personalized treatments for their allergic autoimmune responses. Let’s learn more about functional medicine for allergies and how it works.
How Many People Go Untreated for Allergies?
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the United States, with an estimated 50 million people suffering from allergies each year. Shockingly, many people do not seek out proper diagnosis or treatment for their allergies. Untreated allergies can lead to several complications, including asthma, sinusitis, and ear infections. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical attention if you suspect that you may have allergies.
Why get treated for your allergies? The first answer is obvious: you will no longer suffer from sneezing, itchy eyes, and a scratchy throat. But you might also notice your mood improving and your productivity increasing at work since you’ll feel better. Discover activities you’ve never tried before after using functional medicine for allergies.
Common Allergies in California
California is home to many allergens due to its diverse landscape and climate. Some of the most common allergens in California include the following:
- Pollen: California’s abundance of trees, grasses, and plants means that pollen is a significant allergy trigger for many people.
- Dust Mites: Dust mites are microscopic creatures that thrive in warm, humid environments. They are often found in bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture.
- Mold: Mold spores are another common allergen in California, especially in areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
- Pet Dander: Pet allergies are prevalent in California, where many residents own cats and dogs.
- Cockroaches: Cockroaches are a common allergen in urban areas, and California’s larger cities, such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, are no exception.
Another way to think about California allergies is by season. In general, spring is tree season, summer is weed season, and fall is grass season. Although the coastal climate keeps allergens low compared to other states, without functional medicine, allergies are still a serious problem for millions of people.
The Functional Medicine Approach to Treating Allergies
Functional medicine is a patient-centered approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying the root cause of a patient’s symptoms and developing an individualized treatment plan. Functional medicine practitioners believe that allergies and other chronic conditions are the result of an imbalance in the body’s systems, including the immune, hormonal, and digestive systems.
Functional medicine practitioners take a comprehensive approach to treating allergies, which may include dietary changes, nutritional supplements, and lifestyle modifications. They will also recommend testing to identify specific allergens and develop an individualized treatment plan.
One of the most promising treatments for allergies in functional medicine is called sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT). SLIT involves administering small doses of an allergen under the tongue to desensitize the immune system to the allergen gradually. Over time this can reduce or eliminate allergy symptoms.
Another treatment option in functional medicine is the elimination diet. This involves removing potentially allergenic foods from the diet for a period of time and slowly reintroducing them to identify any triggers. When treating allergies, functional medicine practitioners may also recommend supplements such as quercetin, vitamin C, and probiotics to support immune system function and reduce inflammation.
Stress management is another approach to dealing with allergies. Immune responses cause added stress on the body, so we will want to find ways of calming that instinctual response.
You Don’t Have to Sneeze and Sniffle. Come to Integra for Functional Medicine for Allergies
Allergies are a prevalent condition that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Unfortunately, many people go untreated for their allergies, leading to complications and a reduced quality of life. California residents in particular are exposed to several common allergens, including pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, and cockroaches.
Functional medicine for allergies offers a promising approach by identifying the root cause of a patient’s symptoms and developing an individualized treatment plan. By using techniques such as sublingual immunotherapy, elimination diets, and nutritional supplements, functional medicine practitioners can provide relief to those who suffer from allergies and improve their overall health and well-being.
Sign up today for a complimentary discovery call to learn more about functional medicine for allergies. We look forward to meeting you.
