Allergies

CASE STUDY: Allergies

SUBMITTED BY: Katie Donnelly, Adv Dip HSc Naturopathy

PATIENT: 34-year-old male

INITIAL PRESENTATION:

Presenting with allergic rhinitis primarily relative to seasonal allergies but also dust and cats (skin prick test identified). Symptoms include itchy, red eyes, blocked/runny nose, increased sneezing, itchy nose and throat, overall congestion.

High energy and highly active individual but can experience chest tightness when doing high-intensity exercise, exacerbated by cold air. Has had two asthma attacks in the past but has not been diagnosed as asthmatic. Uses a preventative inhaler x2 daily to reduce the likelihood of asthma attacks reoccurring. Experienced anxiety associated with this.

Second-hand smoke inhalation consistently as a child but has never smoked himself. No digestive concerns and sleep patterns are consistent and restorative. Deviated septum was repaired via surgery in 2015 to aid breathing.  

High histamine is relative to increased frequency and severity of reactions. Dietary choices may be contributing and noted association between consumption of wheat and dairy products.

Symptoms worsen with dust exposure and when cutting the lawns. Noted an increase in symptom frequency on moving from the South Island to the North Island in 2010 (pollen exposure, weather, humidity, living conditions).

HERBAL TREATMENT

Baical Skullcap ( Scutellaria baicalensis)               30mL

Echinacea Blend (angustifolia and purpurea)        30mL

Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis)                            20mL

Albizia ( Albizzia lebbeck)                                      25mL

Dosage:

7.5ml 2x daily – take away from meals to prevent any potential malabsorption from tannins. Add to a small amount of juice to improve flavour. Shake well before pouring.

NUTRITIONAL & LIFESTYLE CHANGES: 

Client is also taking quercetin and vitamin C combination tablet for antioxidant support and histamine regulation, particularly when exercising or during times of fasting when the herbal formula may not sit on an empty stomach, and magnesium cell salts (indicated through tongue tremor and regular cramping post-high-intensity exercise).

Focusing on alterations in diet to increase mineral and vitamin uptake through food to reduce reliance or need for supplementation daily but to use during high-intensity exercise.

Increase in beneficial fats to aid in reducing inflammation. Reducing bread, milk/cheese, and black tea intake to prevent associated congestion and phlegm. Replacing sugar-free drinks with water to support hydration needs and toxin removal.

Consider living conditions – dampness in the home mentioned so a dehumidifier can be beneficial to prevent worsening of breathing due to dampness and potential mould development.


FOLLOW-UP:

• 2-week check-in: Feels as though he has had less congestion and his partner has said he is snoring less. Did not have chest tightness after running yesterday. Still feels as though he needs to have his preventer medication every day. Struggling with the herbal formula taste but has been taking 7.5ml once per day. Encouraged to take x2 per day. Potential to add flavouring mix when this formula has finished aiding in flavour. Potentially add Withania to the mix depending on response when the dose is increased for tonic and adaptogen.

• 4-week check-in: Noted improvement when around cut grass and less overall congestion and phlegm. Less sneezing and itching (eyes/skin). The intensity of symptoms has reduced. Has adapted to the flavour without the need for glycetracts. No asthma attacks and has not felt as though his breathing has been a concern. No wheezing. This blend will be a supportive measure to help the body to prepare for pollens/grass pre and during seasonal changes. Longer-term usage will aid in supporting the body’s response. Potential to add Horseradish as needed.