Allergies, Eczema, Hay fever and Asthma

    
 

CASE STUDY: Allergies – eczema, hay fever, asthma,

SUBMITTED BY: Katie Donnelly

PATIENT: Male, 66 years old

INITIAL PRESENTATION:

The client has experienced seasonal allergies for as long as he can remember, at least the past 40 years. Symptoms include itchy, watery eyes, sinus congestion and post-nasal drip with periodic chest tightening.

He also experiences chronically itchy skin. Skin is dry but he uses a daily, unscented moisturiser that he was prescribed from the doctor. No steroids. Finds that symptoms are reduced with antihistamine medication that he takes daily and increases from one to twice daily during seasonal changes. Mild eczema on the elbow fold periodically. Client has noticed that specific washing powders and soaps aggravate this, so he has switched to Eco products.

No other significant health concerns at present and no medications. The client’s GP has suggested that he start taking statins due to borderline high cholesterol levels and his age. Blood pressure is 120/80 and he is in otherwise good health. Bowels can be sluggish. Some minor reflux and belching described.

Minimal water intake. Enjoys kombucha and has been drinking this more regularly to reduce beer intake (approx. 2 per day). The client eats a balanced diet, with plenty of fresh vegetables and quality protein sources. He does enjoy ice cream and lollies and eats these daily while watching YouTube clips. HBAC1 results show borderline high blood glucose, but within normal range. Loves aromatic food and enjoys cooking, but often snacks instead.

Life changes on retirement, and he has experienced some loss of purpose, which has contributed to occasional low mood. With extra time he has started helping out with his grandchildren, which has been beneficial to his mental wellbeing. Minimal exercise, occasionally walking the dog – however, this is more often at a dog park where the dog can run off leash.

HERBAL TREATMENT

Allergy Mix (200mL)

Scutellaria baicalensis (Baical skullcap) 1:2 60mL
Echinacea purpurea/angustifolia (Echinacea) 1:2 60mL
Euphrasia officinalis (Eyebright) 1:2 40mL
Sambucus nigra flower (Elderflower) 1:2 40mL

Total: 200mL Dosage: 5mL x three times daily.

Liver Support (100mL):

Silybum marianum (Milk thistle) 1:1 80mL
Liquorice glabra (Liquorice) 1:1 20mL

Total: 100mL Dosage: 2mL dropper before each meal, up to three times daily

ADDITIONAL TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

• Increase daily water intake to at least 2 litres.
• Include some daily activity. Take your dog for a walk on leash or use the exercycle machine while watching YouTube. Aim for 30 minutes a day – this can be in 10minute blocks.
• Enjoy slower, focused eating at the table and chew all food well. Drink and eat at different times, separated by 20 minutes to enhance gastric juices.
• If enjoying ice cream or lollies, place a specific amount in a bowl and don’t eat straight from the tub or packet. This will allow you to enjoy a more measured intake.
• Include other probiotic foods in the diet, such as yoghurt, kimchi, and miso.
• Introduce omega 3 sources such as fresh salmon and hemp seed.
• Dedicate time to cooking a meal or learning a new dish. Invite a neighbour or family member over to enjoy this with you.

FOLLOW-UP

2-weeks later:

Symptoms have decreased and client is feeling good. He did not enjoy taking the allergy mix, but continued to do so as he felt it was beneficial. Continued to take one antihistamine tablet. No problems with taking Milk thistle. He felt that his skin had not been as irritating, which he described as a relief.

The client did mention that he was experiencing flaking and itching between his toes more recently, which he thought was related to his shoes. It appears to be candida. Provided a topical cream with Leptospermum scoparium and Calendula officinalis. Advised to increase garlic intake if he can tolerate this and suggested reducing sugar intake and increasing probiotic foods or a supplement.

4-weeks later:

Client is feeling improvements in overall wellbeing and energy. He has started cooking again and is including a range of herbs and spices to support digestion. He did some of his own research and saw a recommendation for Apple Cider Vinegar, which he has started taking before meals. The topical cream soothed his toes, and he has become more aware of triggering factors for feet itching.