Hay fever

Overview
Allergic rhinitis is seasonal or persistent itching, sneezing, running nose, nasal congestion, and sometimes itchy eyes, caused by exposure to pollens or other allergens.

Treatment options
First-line treatment is with a nasal corticosteroid (with or without an oral or a nasal antihistamine) or with an oral antihistamine plus an oral decongestant.

Acupuncture
The specific acupuncture technique we use acts on the nerves regulating nasal mucosa and lacrimal glands. It has no systematic side effect compared to antihistamines. It also provides relief within minutes, compared to nasal steroid, which may take a few days.

Treatment objects
In mild to moderate cases, patients may have complete resolution for the season. Patients with severe hay fever normally experience significant relief of symptoms, and the residual symptoms respond antihistamines and nasal corticosteroid much better.

Treatment protocol
Patients with moderate condition are recommended to have 4 treatments over 2 weeks. Another 2 to 4 treatments may be required in more severe cases.

Safety
Acupuncture is a well-tolerated safe treatment. The specific technique with strong stimulation may be used. Local anaesthesia can be offered, but the injection fo anaesthesia agent may cause more discomfortable compared to needling.

Fee
1st and 2nd treatment: $ 250
subsequent treatments within 3 months: $175

Medicare rebate: $107.25
Total out-of-pock cost (4 sessions): $ 421