Chronic allergies are a chronic functional problem where the patient suffers from stuffy nose, headache, sneezing, watery eyes, scratchy throat, post nasal drip, and itching for much of the time. It is often associated with fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome, and hormonal imbalances.
Chronic allergies are almost always multi-factorial. Some of the contributing causes may be poor bowel health, metabolic imbalances , and poor glycemic control.
Symptomatic treatment is almost always unsuccessful. Only finding and treating the root cause of the problem will lead to a successful outcome.
Patients that suffer from chronic allergies must pay very close attention to their diets. Many of these patients suffer from low blood sugar problems. Since adequate blood sugar is necessary for cellular energy, a state of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can lead to symptoms of allergies, as low energy states can lead to allergic symptoms.
High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can also lead to allergies, because elevated levels of blood sugar can activate the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS).
Many patients with allergies are over consuming carbohydrates, especially in the form of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). They may also be consuming fried foods, polyunsaturated vegetable oils, and food additives like nitrates, nitrites, MSG, and artificial sweeteners. These substances are highly toxic, inflammation and contribute to allergies.
Specific food allergy testing may be necessary as well. Many people are allergic to soy, wheat, milk, and gluten.
