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LLLT Treatment for Allergies

An allergic reaction is essentially a false alarm on the part of your body's immune system. The immune system of people with allergies will mistake things like dust mites, pollen, pet dander or certain food products for invading germs, and will trigger the body's defense mechanisms. Symptoms of allergic reactions include sneezing, itching, and rashes. While these reactions are usually mild, a severe reaction known as anaphylaxis may be life-threatening.

A wide variety of allergy treatments are available, ranging from over-the-counter products to doctor-administered therapies.

  1. Low-Level Laser Therapy

    • In 1993, AN Gam and colleagues published an article in the journal Pain entitled "The effect of low-level laser therapy on musculoskeletal pain: a meta- analysis." This article was one of the earliest serious pieces of research on the curative possibilities of low-level lasers. These lasers emit no heat, sound or vibration; instead, the researchers suggest that they operate through so-called "photobiology," affecting cells through a nonthermal, photochemical reaction.

      LLLT has proven successful in stimulating collagen production, and improving the function of damaged neurological tissue. While there is no consensus on why exactly LLLT works, theories include increased production of ATP, increased serotonin and endorphin levels, and improved circulation.

      In 2002, the FDA approved LLLT therapies under the category "Lamp, Non-heating, for Adjunctive Use in Pain Therapy".

    Allergy Treatment

    • While there is evidence to suggest that LLLT may ease the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, joint disorders, osteoarthritis, lower back pain, ankle sprains, and various kinds of ulcers, there is no information suggesting that LLLT can have a positive impact on allergy symptoms.

      There are, however, a number of proven treatments for allergies. Your local drug store will carry a number of over-the-counter treatments. For instance, loratidine, marketed as Claritin, was once prescription-only; it is now available in an over-the-counter form, and has proven very effective. Find the drug best suited to your symptoms.

      If these over-the-counter treatments do not work, consult your doctor about prescription medications. The newer generation of non-drowsy allergy medications, including fexofenadine (Allegra) and desloratadine (Clarinex) will treat your symptoms without tiring you out. You may also consider nasal sprays or topical steroids.

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