By Dr. Yoon Jeon. MChiro, MB, BSc, Dip.TCM, PGCert.
Case Presentation
A series of three patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) were treated at the clinic in Southampton with acupuncture and herbal medicine, all demonstrating significant clinical improvement.
One representative case involved a woman in her early 30s working in an administrative role.
She had a long history of hay fever symptoms dating back to her teenage years, including nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes, and sinus pressure. Over the years, she had tried multiple interventions including antihistamines, nasal sprays, and steroid injections, with only partial or temporary relief.
In the most recent year, her symptoms became significantly more severe and persistent, and she reported that standard medications were no longer effective.
Symptoms were impacting her daily function, concentration at work, and overall quality of life.
Clinical Assessment
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, the presentation was consistent with:
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Wind-cold / wind-heat invasion affecting the Lung system
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Underlying immune dysregulation
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Nasal passage inflammation and hypersensitivity reaction
Common presenting features included:
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Persistent nasal congestion
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Frequent sneezing episodes
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Itchy and watery eyes
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Sinus pressure and post-nasal drip
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Seasonal exacerbation with environmental triggers
Treatment
A combined treatment approach was implemented, including:
Acupuncture for Allergic Rhinitis
Acupuncture was used to regulate immune response, reduce inflammatory activity, and improve nasal airflow. Treatment also focused on supporting Lung Qi regulation and reducing hypersensitivity reactions.
Herbal Medicine
A customised herbal formula was prescribed to reduce allergic response, support immune modulation, and decrease mucosal inflammation.
Treatment Strategy
The approach focused on both acute symptom relief and longer-term immune regulation, particularly in chronic and recurrent cases of hay fever.
Clinical Outcome
The representative patient reported:
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Noticeable improvement within 1 week of treatment
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Significant reduction in nasal congestion and sneezing
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Improved breathing and reduced sinus pressure
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Enhanced energy and concentration
By 4 weeks:
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Complete resolution of symptoms during the active hay fever season
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No requirement for antihistamines or rescue medication
The additional two cases showed similar positive responses, with marked reduction in symptom severity and improved seasonal tolerance.
Clinical Summary
These cases demonstrate that acupuncture and herbal medicine may provide effective management options for allergic rhinitis (hay fever), particularly in chronic or medication-resistant cases.
Clinical response was notably rapid in some patients, suggesting a beneficial regulatory effect on immune and inflammatory pathways.
References
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Xue CC, et al. (2002). Acupuncture for seasonal allergic rhinitis: a randomized controlled trial.
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Brinkhaus B, et al. (2013). Acupuncture in patients with allergic rhinitis: a pragmatic randomized trial.
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Roberts J, et al. (2008). Systematic review of acupuncture for allergic rhinitis.
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Cummings M, White A. (2001). Needling therapies in musculoskeletal and inflammatory conditions.
