Allergic Rhinitis
Overview
Allergic rhinitis (bi qiu) is characterized by sudden, recurrent itchy nose, paroxysmal sneezing, clear watery discharge, and nasal congestion, often with itchy eyes or throat. In TCM the root is commonly deficiency of lung qi, lung-spleen qi deficiency, or insufficiency of kidney yang, with wind-cold invading the nasal orifices as the branch.
Pattern differentiation (clinical patterns)
Lung Qi Deficiency with Cold
Itchy nose with sneezing and clear discharge triggered by cold, aversion to wind, frequent colds, shortness of breath and fatigue, pale tongue with thin white coating, weak pulse.
Warm the lung and disperse cold; boost qi and consolidate the exterior.
Spleen Qi Deficiency
Recurrent nasal congestion and discharge with poor appetite, abdominal bloating, loose stools, fatigue, sallow complexion, pale enlarged tongue with teeth marks, slow weak pulse.
Fortify the spleen and boost qi; raise yang and open the orifices.
Connections
Daily care & prevention
Keep the neck, back, nose, and face warm and protected from cold wind; maintain regular sleep and moderate exercise to strengthen defensive qi. During flare-ups, warm the nasal bridge and massage Yingxiang (LI20), Yintang, Fengchi (GB20), and Hegu (LI4). Between episodes, moxibustion at Zusanli (ST36), Qihai (CV6), and Feishu (BL13) may help. Reduce exposure to dust mites, pollen, and smoke.
When to seek medical care
Seek evaluation for persistent one-sided blockage, purulent discharge with facial pain or fever, nosebleeds, or marked loss of smell to rule out sinusitis or nasal polyps.