1. Causes of Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is common in Taiwan due to its monsoon climate and is one of the most frequently seen allergic conditions in children, along with asthma and atopic dermatitis. This allergic tendency typically develops gradually from an early age. The primary cause lies in the hypersensitivity of the nasal mucosa to certain airborne substances or to changes in temperature and humidity. This leads to a persistent inflammatory response, causing localized swelling and continuous mucus secretion, which results in a constant runny nose or nasal congestion.
Each patient may react to different allergens. In Taiwan, dust mites are the most common allergens. Other frequently encountered allergens include mold, animal dander, and air pollutants. Some individuals are simply sensitive to fluctuations in temperature or humidity.
When the nasal mucosa remains inflamed over a prolonged period, the respiratory tract's ability to defend against external pathogens is compromised. This makes the individual more susceptible to recurrent viral or bacterial infections, which may gradually develop into chronic sinusitis and even impair the sense of smell.
2. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Approach to Treating Allergic Rhinitis
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the root cause of allergic rhinitis is viewed through the concept of "deficiency", particularly a deficiency of "lung qi". This refers to a weakened respiratory system and impaired skin function in regulating body temperature. The lungs govern qi and control respiration, and they are closely related to the skin's ability to regulate temperature, forming the body's first line of defense against external climatic changes. The lungs are sensitive to any fluctuations in weather; if lung qi is deficient, the body's defensive capacity decreases, leaving it vulnerable to airborne impurities, allergens, and abrupt changes in temperature and humidity.
Therefore, during the acute phase of allergic reactions, TCM treatment primarily focuses on strengthening and promoting the circulation of lung qi while expelling external pathogenic factors—commonly cold pathogens. During remission phases, treatment is adjusted to support the function of the spleen and stomach, thereby nourishing lung qi. For individuals with chronic illness, constitutional weakness, or advanced age, kidney-tonifying herbs may be incorporated to enhance and sustain therapeutic effects.
TCM aims to improve allergic conditions by strengthening the individual's overall constitution, thereby reducing their susceptibility to allergens. Once the body's constitution is reinforced and allergic symptoms subside, medication can typically be discontinued—continuous long-term medication is not required. This constitutional strengthening approach is also applicable to persistent symptoms following COVID-19 or influenza, such as chronic cough, fatigue, or disturbances in smell and taste.
3. Daily Health Maintenance and Prevention
1.Avoid cold beverages and raw or chilled fruits: Common examples include watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, dragon fruit, pineapple, cherry and regular tomatoes, pomelo, coconut, and unripe persimmons.
2.Maintain a regular sleep schedule: Go to bed early and wake up early. Avoid staying up late, and engage in moderate, consistent physical activity.
3.Protect yourself from sudden temperature changes: When going out early in the morning or entering an air-conditioned room, it is advisable to wear a mask or appropriate warm clothing.
4.For those allergic to dust mites: Frequent indoor cleaning is necessary. Pillowcases, quilts, and bed sheets should be washed and sun-dried every two weeks.
5.For those allergic to mold: Use a dehumidifier indoors and avoid staying in damp or moldy environments as much as possible.
6.For those allergic to animal dander: It is recommended not to keep pets at home.