Other names for Allergies (respiratory)

Allergic rhinitis
Hay fever
Perennial allergic rhinitis
Pollen allergies
Seasonal allergies

Synopsis of Allergies (respiratory)

Respiratory allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to airborne substances, such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, or pollutants, triggering an inflammatory response in the respiratory tract. The immune system produces histamine and other chemicals in response to these harmless allergens, leading to symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, and throat irritation.

Respiratory allergies can be seasonal (e.g., pollen-related hay fever) or perennial (year-round due to indoor allergens like dust mites or pet dander). In some cases, respiratory allergies can worsen or trigger asthma, especially if inflammation spreads to the lower airways.

Types:

• Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever): Triggered by outdoor allergens like pollen or mold, occurring at specific times of the year.

• Perennial allergic rhinitis: Occurs year-round, triggered by indoor allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, or mold.

• Allergic asthma: Involves airway inflammation and constriction triggered by allergens, overlapping with respiratory allergies.

• Occupational allergies: Caused by workplace exposures (e.g., chemicals, dust, animal dander).

Common Causes (Triggers):

• Pollen: Trees (spring), grasses (summer), weeds (fall).

• Dust mites: Microscopic organisms in bedding, upholstery, and carpets.

• Pet dander: Proteins from skin, saliva, or urine of cats, dogs, and other animals.

• Mold spores: Found indoors or outdoors, especially in damp environments.

• Smoke and pollutants: Can irritate the airways and exacerbate allergies.

• Cockroach droppings: Common allergen in urban settings.

More Severe Causes (Complications):

• Allergic asthma: Respiratory allergies can trigger asthma attacks, leading to wheezing, chest tightness, and breathing difficulty.

• Sinus infections (Sinusitis): Chronic nasal inflammation can block sinuses, leading to infection.

• Sleep disturbances: Nasal congestion and irritation can impair sleep quality.

• Ear infections: Especially in children due to blocked Eustachian tubes.

• Decreased quality of life: Persistent symptoms can impair daily activities, concentration, and mood.

When to See a Doctor or Allergist:

• Persistent allergy symptoms affecting daily life or sleep

• Symptoms worsen or become year-round

• Respiratory allergies trigger asthma attacks or breathing difficulties

• Over-the-counter medications are ineffective

• To confirm diagnosis through allergy testing (skin prick test, blood tests)

Natural remedies for Allergies (respiratory)

Saline Nasal Irrigation (Neti Pot or Saline Spray): Flushes allergens and irritants from nasal passages, reducing congestion and inflammation. Use daily during allergy seasons.

HEPA Filters (Air Purifiers): Removes airborne allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander from indoor air. Place in bedrooms and living spaces.

Quercetin (Natural Antihistamine): Stabilizes mast cells and reduces histamine release, lowering allergic responses. Available in apples, onions, and as a supplement.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Anti-inflammatory properties reduce airway inflammation and modulate immune responses. Include fish oil, flaxseed, or chia seeds in the diet.

Butterbur (Petasites hybridus): Herb traditionally used to reduce allergic inflammation and support respiratory health. Available as standardized supplements (PA-free).

Local Honey (Mild Seasonal Allergies): May reduce sensitivity to local pollen allergens. Use cautiously; not suitable for severe allergies.

Probiotics: Support gut-immune axis and may reduce allergic responses. Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains are commonly studied.

Vitamin C: Acts as a natural antihistamine and supports immune balance. Include citrus fruits, bell peppers, or supplements.

Green Tea (Catechins): Contains polyphenols with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may reduce allergic responses. Drink 1–2 cups daily.

Keep Windows Closed During High Pollen Times: Reduces exposure to outdoor allergens, especially in the morning when pollen counts are highest.

Ingredients

These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat Allergies (respiratory)

2'-Fucosyllactose
Acinetobacter lwoffii
Adrenergic amines
Akkermansia muciniphila
alpha-glycosyl isoquercitrin
Amor seco
Aralia
Asarum sieboldii
ashwagandha
aster root
Asteraceae
bacillus coagulans
bacteria
balloon flower
bee pollen
benegut perilla (proprietary)
Bidens pilosa
Bifidobacteria
Bifidobacterium
Bifidobacterium animalis
Bifidobacterium breve
Bifidobacterium lactis
Bifidobacterium longum
bioflavonoids
bishop\'s weed
black cumin
black seed
Boswellia
bromelain
bupleurum falcatum
butterbur
capillary artemisia
cardamom
Centipeda
chamomile
chrysanthemum
cineole
Cinidium
Cistus
citrus bioflavonoids
Clostridium butyricum
cortisol
cowherb
curcumen
curcumin
Echinacea
Elder
essential oil blend
eucalyptus
European Elder
Eyebright
fang-feng
fernbush
forskohlii root
galactooligosaccharides
ginger
ginseng
green tea
Guaco
heal-all
herbal blend (proprietary)
Himalayan salt
honey
honey loquat syrup
honeysuckle
horseradish
Houttuynia
iridoids
Kefir
kuding tea
Lactobacillus brevis
Lactobacillus gasseri
Lactobacillus paracasei
Lactococcus lactis
Lesser speargrass
licorice root
magnesium
marigold
Menthol oil
Mineral ascorbate
Monoterpenes
Mullein
Nettle
Nigella seed
omega-3 fatty acids
perilla
Phleum pratense
pineapple
Pinellia ternata
Platycodon
platycodon root
Plectranthus amboinicus
prebiotic blend (proprietary)
probiotics
purple butterbur root
quercetin
ravinsara
rhizome
Rooibos
rosmarinic acid
Sagebrush
schizonepeta
scrophularia root
siler root
Stellaria dichotoma
Stereospermum
Tagetes
Terpenoids
turmeric
Violet
vitamin C
vitamin D
Yuzu