Environmental Allergies

An allergic reaction is an immune response to a foreign substance (antigen) that results in inflammation and organ dysfunction. Allergens can be chemical, environmental or food-based. Hayfever is known as allergic rhinitis. Hayfever is an allergic reaction to inhaled allergens including pollens, dust and animal dander that affects the mucus membranes of the eyes, nose and airways. Hayfever is usually a seasonal occurrence. Hayfever is an example of an environmental allergy.

Signs and Symptoms

1. Allergic Rhinitis
-  Stuffy, runny nose (usually clear mucous)
-  Ear pain and pressure
-  Watery, itchy eyes
-  Body aches
-  Frequent sneezing
-  Fatigue
-  Nervousness
-  Sore throats
-  Coughing/wheezing
-  Can cause depression
2. Environmental Allergies
-  Diarrhea
-  Bronchitis
-  Runny/stuffed nose
-  Nausea
-  Chronic fatigue
-  Rash/hives
-  Digestive upset
-  Depression/anxiety
-  Ringing in the ears
-  Asthma
-  Headaches
-  Arthritis
-  Eczema
-  Hayfever
-  Sneezing
-  Itchy skin/eyes
-  Dark circles under the eyes

Possible Causes or Contributing Factors

1. Weakened immune system - may be due to increased T-cell levels because of constant internal battle, which causes allergic reactions to be triggered more quickly.
2. Environmental toxins (metals, chemicals, other pollutants) which weaken the immune system.
3. Repetitive immunizations or antibiotic/steroidal medication that decrease immune response and disturb the normal gastrointestinal flora.
4. Dysbiosis - candida, parasites, fungi, etc. decrease efficiency of gut mucosa and increase potential for allergies.
5. Heredity - children born to parents with allergies have an increased chance of developing allergies themselves.
6. Nutritional deficiencies
7. Stress/physical or emotional trauma - due to decreased immune function, adrenal response and possibly decreased HCl production
8. Poor liver function - due to its role in removing foreign protein from the body and detoxifying the system.

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