Avenue Acupuncture FAQs

TCM views nose-related symptoms as a branch of an internal problem with the body’s organs, particularly the lungs, which are most easily affected by external pathogens like allergens and bacteria. A TCM practitioner looks at where in the body the imbalance originated in order to relieve immediate symptoms while addressing the underlying cause.

For allergic rhinitis, treatments include avoiding the allergen, allergy shots, saline washes, antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal sprays, and decongestants. For chronic sinusitis, treatments include saline washes, nasal or oral corticosteroids, antibiotics for bacterial infections, immunotherapy, or surgery for polyps or other obstructions.

Allergic rhinitis, commonly called hay fever, is caused by environmental allergens like pollen, mold, or dust mites triggering the immune system. Chronic sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinus lining caused by nasal polyps, a deviated septum, respiratory infections, or as a complication of another condition. The two are often linked, since allergic rhinitis can block the nose and lead to sinusitis.