Acupuncture for Sinus Health: A Safe and Effective Approach to Chronic Congestion

Written By Mark Sargeant

Sinus congestion, hay fever and chronic sinusitis affect many adults each year, impacting sleep, concentration, breathing and overall quality of life. Many people rely on antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays for temporary relief.

We treat many patients with sinus issues and hay fever at Coastal Natural Therapies, and we find that acupuncture can be very effective for relieving symptoms and supporting immune function.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), sinus issues are related to problems within the Lung and Spleen meridians, as well as the body’s defensive Qi. Seasonal shifts are another contributing factor, especially during Spring and Autumn. In Spring, increased wind may irritate the Liver and impact immune regulation, whereas Autumn’s dryness can affect Lung function. As well as seasonal changes, other causes include stress, which weakens the immune system, digestive weakness, poor diet and environmental factors such as air conditioning, allergies and harsh working conditions.

How does acupuncture help?

1. It reduces inflammation in the body

Help improve circulation around the nose and sinus area, reducing swelling and pressure.

2. Reduces phlegm

Acupuncture can reduce phlegm, helping ease sinus congestion and improve breathing.

3. Improves immune function

Research shows acupuncture can modulate inflammatory cytokines and even reduce allergen-specific IgE levels. 1 This means that acupuncture can calm the body’s response to allergens.

4. Regulates the nervous system

Stress is so everyday, and it has a huge impact on all bodily organs and processes. Acupuncture can reduce sympathetic activity (the fight-or-flight response), thereby boosting immune function and relaxing muscles. In this instance, it can reduce neck, jaw, and facial tension that can restrict sinus flow.

5. Supports long-term changes in the body

Regular acupuncture treatments help regulate these changes over time, which helps many patients transition away from constant medication.

Case Study: Chronic Sinusitis in a 55-Year-Old Male

A 55-year-old male presented with long-standing chronic sinusitis. He reported difficulty breathing through his nose, severe morning congestion, hay fever flare-ups, multiple allergies, and persistent fatigue due to sleep disturbance.

Initial Treatment Plan

Initially, the patient was scheduled for four weekly sessions. Treatments were personalised and tailored to his individual pattern. They focused on reducing inflammation, clearing phlegm, regulating the immune system, and opening airways.

After the fourth treatment, he reported:

• Significant reduction in nasal blockage
• Noticeably increased nasal airflow at night
• Improved energy levels due to better sleep
• Reduced hay fever symptoms
• Clearer breathing in the morning
• More emotional regulation, so more able to cope with stress.

Treatment was dropped down to fortnightly, then monthly, to maintain progress and support seasonal allergy management. Symptoms remained consistently mild and manageable year-round.

Research

Studies showed that acupuncture significantly improved nasal symptoms (such as congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and itching) compared with sham acupuncture or standard medication alone. Two Patients reported better sleep, and improvements were seen in follow-up periods, showing that the effects of acupuncture were long-lasting.

References

1. McDonald JL, Smith PK, Smith CA, Changli Xue C, Golianu B, Cripps AW; Mucosal Immunology Research Group. Effect of acupuncture on house dust mite-specific IgE, substance P, and symptoms in persistent allergic rhinitis. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2016 Jun;116(6):497-505. doi: 10.1016/j.anai.2016.04.002. Epub 2016 May 4. PMID: 27156748.

2. He M, Qin W, Qin Z, Zhao C. Acupuncture for allergic rhinitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Med Res. 2022 Apr 25;27(1):58. doi: 10.1186/s40001-022-00682-3. PMID: 35462555; PMCID: PMC9036742.

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