Thinking of Acupuncture for Hay Fever?
Melbourne's hay fever season can make everyday life difficult. Sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, a constantly blocked or runny nose and disturbed sleep can be particularly frustrating during spring when grass pollen levels are high.
I'm Michael Warren, a registered acupuncturist with over 15 years of clinical experience. At Coburg Chinese Medicine, I offer individual consultations for people considering acupuncture for hay fever (hayfever) and allergic rhinitis alongside their usual healthcare.
My clinic is at 197 Sydney Road, Coburg, providing acupuncture and Chinese medicine consultations for people from Coburg, Coburg North, Brunswick, Pascoe Vale, Pascoe Vale South, Preston, Fawkner and surrounding northern Melbourne suburbs. I also welcome people travelling from elsewhere in Melbourne.
If you're looking into acupuncture for hay fever in Melbourne, you're welcome to book an appointment.
Hay fever, allergic rhinitis and sinus symptoms
Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, occurs when the immune system reacts to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mould or animal dander.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis is particularly common during Melbourne's spring grass pollen season, while perennial allergic rhinitis can cause symptoms throughout the year.
Common symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, a runny or itchy nose, watery eyes and disrupted sleep.
Some people also experience sinus congestion or facial pressure. Although hay fever and sinusitis can have overlapping symptoms, they're different conditions and may require different medical assessment and care.
My approach to acupuncture and Chinese medicine for hay fever
When you come to see me, we'll discuss your symptoms, how long you've experienced them, what seems to make them worse and how they're affecting your everyday life.
I'll ask about any allergy testing, medications and other healthcare you're receiving, along with relevant factors such as sleep and general health.
My approach is individual. I'll explain any acupuncture or other Chinese medicine techniques I think may be appropriate, and we'll discuss a plan together.
As the sole practitioner, you'll see me throughout your care. There are no compulsory treatment packages or predetermined numbers of appointments.
Book Your Acupuncture Consultation
Can acupuncture help with hay fever?
Acupuncture has been investigated for seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, including research conducted at RMIT University in Melbourne.
Some studies and systematic reviews have reported improvements in nasal symptoms and quality of life. However, the consistency and certainty of the evidence vary, and individual outcomes can't be guaranteed.
Acupuncture may be considered alongside established allergy care, including antihistamines, nasal sprays and advice from your GP or pharmacist. It shouldn't be regarded as a replacement for prescribed medication.
Hay fever acupuncture in Coburg, Brunswick and Pascoe Vale
Coburg Chinese Medicine is located at 197 Sydney Road, Coburg VIC 3058, welcoming people from Brunswick, Pascoe Vale, Coburg North, Preston, Thornbury, Fawkner, Reservoir and surrounding Melbourne suburbs.
I also welcome patients travelling from elsewhere in Melbourne for acupuncture consultations.
You can find current consultation costs and opening hours on my Fees & Opening Hours page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I book during hay fever season?
Yes. You're welcome to book during Melbourne's spring pollen season or at another time of year if you experience ongoing allergic rhinitis symptoms.
Can I continue using hay fever medication?
Yes. Continue medication as directed by your pharmacist or treating clinician. We'll discuss your current allergy management as part of your consultation.
How many treatments will I need, and how often?
You may encounter persuasive claims elsewhere. My professional obligations as a registered practitioner, under Ahpra and Chinese Medicine Board requirements, mean I need to assess your circumstances before recommending an acupuncture treatment schedule.
During your acupuncture consultation, we’ll discuss an individual treatment plan.
Questions before booking? You’re welcome to call me on 03 9041 6569.
Book an acupuncture consultation for hay fever in Melbourne
If hay fever is affecting your sleep, work or daily activities and you'd like to discuss acupuncture as part of your healthcare, you're welcome to make an appointment at Coburg Chinese Medicine.
Book a Hay Fever Acupuncture Consultation
References
Call us on ☎ (03) 9041 6569 to arrange an appointment or book online below
References
2. Betterhealth.vic.gov.au. (2017). Hay Fever. [online] Available at: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/hay-fever [Accessed 14 Feb. 2018].
3. Feng S, Han M, Fan Y, Yang G, Liao Z, Liao W, et al. Acupuncture for the treatment of allergic rhinitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Rhinol Allergy. 2015 Jan-Feb;29(1):57-62.
4. Taw MB, Reddy WD, Omole FS, Seidman MD. Acupuncture and allergic rhinitis. Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2015 Jun;23(3):216-20.
5. Seidman MD, Gurgel RK, Lin SY, Schwartz SR, Baroody FM, Bonner JR, et al. Clinical practice guideline: Allergic rhinitis. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2015 Feb;152(1 Suppl):S1-43.
6. McDonald JL, Smith PK, Smith CA, Changli Xue C, Golianu B, Cripps AW. Effect of acupuncture on house dust mite specific IgE, substance P, and symptoms in persistent allergic rhinitis. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2016 Jun;116(6):497-505.
7. Xue CC, Zhang AL, Zhang CS, DaCosta C, Story DF, Thien FC. Acupuncture for seasonal allergic rhinitis: a randomized controlled trial. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2015 Oct;115(4):317-24.e1.
8. Kim SY, Lee H, Chae Y, Park HJ, Lee H. A systematic review of cost-effectiveness analyses alongside randomised controlled trials of acupuncture. Acupunct Med. 2012 Dec;30(4):273-85.
9. Reinhold T, Roll S, Willich SN, Ortiz M, Witt CM, Brinkhaus B. Cost-effectiveness for acupuncture in seasonal allergic rhinitis: economic results of the ACUSAR trial. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2013 Jul;111(1):56-63.