Acupuncture: Your Best Defense Against Colds and Flu!
As the days grow shorter, the leaves turn brilliant colors, and the air grows steadily colder, we know that winter…and cold and flu season…are right around the corner. Of course we all know now that being cold, leaving the house with wet hair, and other “old wives tales” don’t really make you sick. It is true, however, that cold- and flu-causing viruses thrive in the cold, dry winter air and that our exposure to those viruses increases as we spend more time inside. So, as cold and flu season approaches, it’s time to take some proactive steps—like regular acupuncture treatments—to help ensure that you stay healthy!
While colds and flu are both caused by viruses and can be mistaken for each other, they are, in fact, two different illnesses. What we call a “cold” is an illness of the upper respiratory system that generally impacts the nose, sinuses, and larynx. Symptoms of a cold include nasal congestion (a runny nose), sneezing, coughing, sinus pressure and headaches, a sore, scratchy throat, and mild fatigue. Although uncomfortable, colds are usually mild and generally harmless. The flu, or influenza, is a much more serious viral infection that can be quite dangerous and may require medical intervention. While the symptoms of the flu may be similar to those of the common cold, they are usually more intense. Additional symptoms of the flu may include fever, body aches, weakness, and extreme exhaustion.
How Does Acupuncture Prevent Colds and Flu?
The human body has the amazing ability to protect and heal itself! It is constantly checking and re-checking our internal systems for signs of trouble; when a threat is detected, such as the presence of a foreign body like a virus, the immune system goes into overdrive to kick the invader out before it can cause any damage. Therefore, one of the best ways to keep yourself from getting sick is to ensure that your body’s natural immune system is strong, healthy, and well-balanced.
The goal of acupuncture is to do just that: restore and enhance your body’s natural self-healing mechanisms. When our internal systems are weak and/or out of balance, our ability to self-heal is reduced and we become vulnerable to the illness-causing effects of foreign invaders like viruses. Acupuncture strengthens and restores the body’s natural homeostasis, or balance, boosting its ability to fight off germs and other foreign invaders. In other words, acupuncture treatments before the onset of cold and flu symptoms ensure that your body’s natural defense systems are strong, balanced, and ready to help you stay healthy.
Benefits of Acupuncture During Cold and Flu Season
Regular acupuncture treatments throughout cold and flu season can help you stay healthy and if you begin to feel the onset of cold and flu symptoms, an immediate acupuncture treatment may help prevent the illness from getting worse. Acupuncture can:
- Boost the immune system for up to three days
- Stimulate hormonal homeostasis (balance) for maximum self-healing
- Relieve nasal congestion, sinus pressure, and sinus headaches
- Relieve discomfort caused by a “sore throat”
- Facilitate faster elimination of viruses and toxins
- Reduce fatigue and exhaustion
- Reduce body aches
It is important to note, however, that acupuncture is most effective before the onset of serious flu symptoms. If you have a fever or an active cough, acupuncture is not appropriate and we ask that you not come in for treatment. Lots of bed rest and fluids are important at this stage, and if symptoms persist or become serious, it is important to see a doctor right away.
For more information about how acupuncture and other treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Clintonville (614) 725-2488 | Main St, Westerville (614) 426-4406 or click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.