Allergies are becoming increasingly common in Australia for a range of reasons. These slides were developed for a course created to help the community better understand and more effectively manage allergies.
2. What will be covered?
Session 1
Statistics on allergy
Type of allergy – environmental, ingested, contact, injected.
What the body is doing in allergic reaction
Common causes
Session 2
Medical treatment
Naturopathic treatment
Food and nutrients to address allergy and intolerance
Other strategies to improve the problem
2
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
3. Welcome to Spring!!!!!!
Most of us love spring –
except for those who suffer
from allergy.
For allergy sufferers spring is
misery...
We will discuss spring fever
but other allergy also.
3
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
4. What is allergy?
Allergy is defined as an immune-mediated, hypersensitive
inflammatory response to an allergen in an individual that may be
harmless in other individuals.
Allergens include food, pollen, perfume. What else?
Australia has one of the highest allergy prevalence in the world.
4
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
5. Allergy or Intolerance?
We need to careful about using the term ‘allergy’ because in some
people we are talking about ‘intolerance’ rather than allergy.
There are important differences between the two and treating
them effectively requires different strategies.
5
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
8. What happens in allergy?
When the allergen is ingested, inhaled, injected or absorbed, the
body recognises the object as a foreign body and enacts a
defence.
This is a natural protection but in allergy/intolerance the defence
mechanism overreacts and creates havoc in the body.
Inflammation, swelling, pain which is inappropriate for the
situation
8
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
9. The Immune System
Protects us from disease. Without an
immune system we would be overcome
and die.
To function properly our immunity must
be highly adaptable, as pathogens can
quickly change to avoid detection by
our immune cells. Therefore immunity
is complex
We are born with innate immunity and
develop acquired immunity.
Both innate and acquired immunity
depend on the ability to differentiate
between self and non-self.
9
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
10. Innate vs Adaptive Immunity
Innate immune system Adaptive immune system
Pathogen and antigen specific
Response is non-specific
response
Exposure leads to immediate Lag time between exposure and
maximal response maximal response
Cell-mediated and humoral Cell-mediated and humoral
components components
Exposure leads to immunological
No immunological memory
memory
Found in nearly all forms of life Found only in jawed vertebrates
10
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
12. How do we develop immunity?
During pregnancy immune cells are transferred via the placenta
During birth, babies are covered in immune cells as they pass
through the birth canal
During breastfeeding, colostrum and mothers milk provide
immune cells
Coming into contact with microbes develops immunity
12
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
13. Difference between Allergy & Intolerance…
There are 4 types of allergic reaction:
Type 1 – Anaphylactic reactions are associated with IgE
hypersensitivity reactions. This occurs when cells have come into
contact with the allergen and become sensitised, no observable
reaction occurs at this point. But when the allergen is encountered a
second time, this is when the anaphylaxis occurs and can be very
frightening for the patient and observers. Peanut allergy is an
example.
Type 2 – Cytotoxic occurs when IgG and IgM antibodies react to a
person’s own tissue and cells.
Type 3 - Immune complex involves IgG and IgA reactions and is seen
in food intolerances.
Type 4 – Delayed Hypersensitivity Reactions occurs when 12-72 hours
passes before the observable reaction is noted. This makes it very
hard to identify the allergen.
13
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
14. Ig?
Antigens
Immunoglobulin (Ig) is another name
for an antibody Y shaped
Antibody
Made when a foreign body is detected
by the immune system
There are specific to particular foreign
bodies
Diff: shape of the arm
14
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
15. IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG
Immunoglobulin Isotypes/classes of Mammals
IgA Found in mucosal areas, such as the gut,
respiratory tract, urogenital tract, saliva,
tears, and breast milk and prevents
colonization by pathogens.
IgD Functions mainly as an antigen receptor on
B cells that have not been exposed to
antigens. It has been shown to activate
basophils and mast cells to produce
antimicrobial factors.
IgE Binds to allergens and triggers histamine
release from mast cells and basophils, and
is involved in allergy.
IgG In its four forms, provides the majority of
antibody-based immunity against invading
pathogens. The only antibody capable of
crossing the placenta to give passive
immunity to the foetus.
15
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
16. How else are we protected?
Skin barrier
Tear
Urine
White Mucous
GI flora
Stomach Acid
16
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
17. Statistics
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) currently affects
1/10 children aged 6-7 years
1/6 children aged 13-14 years
2/5 adults
Asthma currently affects
1/5 children
1/10 adults
Eczema currently affects
1/6 children aged 6-7 years
1/10 children aged 13-14 years
1/14 adults
17
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
18. Statistics
Allergy expert Prof Katie Allen says Australian children have the
highest recorded rate of food allergies in the world and warns the
statistics could translate into a wave of chronic diseases.
1:10 children have a food allergy.
Why? Any theories?
18
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
20. Possible reasons:
Dietary change
Modern farming practices
Modern living standards
Heredity
Hygiene theory
Overuse of Antibiotics
Lack of breastfeeding and vaginal birth
Low stomach acid, poor GI function and
wrong intestinal bacteria
20
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
21. SESSION 2
Medical treatment
Diagnostic methods
Medication
Naturopathic treatment
Diagnostic methods
Food and nutrients to address allergy and intolerance
Other strategies to improve the problem
21
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
22. Medical Approach
- Diagnostic Methods
Only deal with Allergy – not interested in intolerance
Symptoms
Medical History
Testing
Full Blood Count
White Cell Count
Skin prick test
Coeliac testing
22
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
23. Medical Approach
- Medication & Treatment
Antihistamines relieves itch and redness
Antibiotics kill bacteria
Cortisone (Prednisone) is an immunosuppressant, calming the
overactive immune response to allergens and anti-inflammatory.
Ventolin relieves bronchospasm
Seretide/Symbicort is a combination corticosteroid and
bronchospasm reliever
Dynastat – Cox 2 inhibitor used to calm inflammation, pain and
swelling (urticaria, asthma)
Ibuprofen/Aspirin – NSAID for pain relief and reduce swelling.
Epinephrine – EPI pen – relieves anaphylaxis
CoQ10 should be given with corticosteroids to avoid corticosteroid induced myopathy. Some risk of Oestoporosis also
exists.
23
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
24. Naturopathic Approach
- Diagnostic methods
Symptoms
Family and Medical History
Pathology and Functional Testing
IgG Food tests
Iridology
Live blood analysis *
Kinesiology *
Identify the CAUSE
Treat the CAUSE…
24
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
25. Check the Gut
Regardless of the allergic/intolerant picture, I always check the
gut…
80% of our immunity cells are in our gut, therefore any immune
dysfunction must address problems there
Poor digestion, bloating, wind/burping, constipation, diarrhoea,
food cravings…
25 Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688 10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop
26. Naturopathic - Treatment Options
Asthma - Prevention
Remove allergens Support immunity
Phthalates and other organic guard against colds/flus
bronchial asthma
compounds ie paint ie
carpet, dust, bedding, curtains, Nutritionally adequate diet
keeping areas dander and dust
free, pets,
Smoke including passive
insects ie
cockroaches, perfumes and
cosmetics,
Some foods:
Sulphites, Dairy
cold air/cold liquids, sport,
26
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
27. Naturopathic - Treatment Options
Asthma
Apply castor oil packs to the promotes bronchospasm Note:
back, lung and kidney areas Western diets are low in Mg
Apply mullein oil to unplug the Flavonoids (quercetin) reduces
bronchial tubes histamine release
Vitamin C reduces wheezing – High strength B complex – anti
kiwi fruit, citrus stress and support the immune
fruits, guava, berries system . Studies show that
some B’s have an inhibitory
Licorice tea – relieves bronchial
effect on mast cells
irritation
COQ10 – see medication note
Omega 3 fats reduces
inflammation
Magnesium 400mg/d
antagonises Calcium, which
27
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
28. Naturopathic - Treatment Options
Asthma
Other: Adhatoda
Avoid triggers Albizia
Support immunity Marshmallow
Reduce stress Coleus
Moderate physical exertion – Yoga Drosera
esp breathing exercises
Euphorbia
Correct & Support digestive function
Licorice
Avoid food additives for their link to
allergy/intolerance Grindelia
Diaphragm can push into the lung Picchoriza
cavity, eat lightly, reduce gas Ginkgo
producing foods, avoid overeating
and excessive weight. Baical skullcap
Herbs:
28
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
29. Naturopathic – Treatment Options
Eczema/Atopic Dermatitis
Affects 12% of the population, predominantly in children but does
continue into adulthood. Many things contribute to this condition
which is not life threatening but reduces QOL.
Many things can contribute: FH, Stress, Food intol, intestinal
dysbiosis, candida overgrowth, poor digestive function
29
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
30. Naturopathic – Treatment Options
Eczema/Atopic Dermatitis
Consider Food intolerance In all cases we do gut healing
testing (take a test result) IgG work and boost the good
test bacteria in the large intestine.
Slippery Elm, Glutamine, Aloe
But as first start Dairy and GF
vera, Turmeric, Quercetin
until arrives
Otherwise exclude for 3m and
then move to the next suspect
food
Or low reactive diet –
pear, rice, lamb and most vege
for 3m
30
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
31. Naturopathic – Treatment Options
Eczema/Atopic Dermatitis
Reduce AA – red meat and dairy Stress can be a major factor in
causing flare ups but is not the
Increase Omega 3 intake – fish, flax initiating factor. Develop stress
Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, busting techniques – breathing, yoga,
Zinc, EFAs, changing jobs, changing partner,
exercise, nervous system support
Probiotics – Lactobacillis sp. (B’s, herbs, neurotransmitters,
Herbs: depuratives, immune herbs magnesium)
but not the focus
Topicals
AVOID External chemicals – Chickweed
perfumes, cosmetics, skin topicals,
clothes detergents and softeners. Calenda
Soap is not a good idea b/c it strips German chamomile
the acidic mantle of the skin. Liquid
body wash is better but in a SLS free Manuka honey
formula. Vitamin E
31
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
32. Naturopathic - Treatment Options
Hayfever/Allergic rhinitis
Determine the cause via a skin Drink lots of water to flush out
prick test or RAST; AND the body, reduces inflammation
REMOVE IF POSSIBLE and thins the mucous
Prepare for spring: By starting Identifying any underlying GI
early with disorders such as poor
supplements, removing dairy digestion which causes
from the diet because of the systemic inflammation and
mucous forming element. bowel flora imbalance. Urine
test can identify this.
Saline spray/Neti pot –
antibacterial and cleanses the Adequate sleep, rest and
nasal passages exposure to fresh air.
Steam bath containing Apply hot packs to the mucous
eucalyptus/tea tree/thyme oil membranes, volatile oils
32
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
33. Naturopathic - Treatment Options
Hayfever/Allergic rhinitis
Proteolytic enzymes Highly nutritious but easily
digested diet ie. Soups, cooked
Zinc
foods eg porridge instead of
Horseradish muesli. Steamed vege instead
of salad.
Garlic
Reduce sugar as it interferes
Nettle
with the immune system
Marshmallow
Warming drinks
Echinacea
Albizia
Reishi & Shiitake Mushrooms
Antioxidants
33
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
34. Naturopathic - Treatment Options
Hives/Chronic Urticaria
Allergic component, candida
Caused by Th1/Th2 balance. Mast cell degranulation.
Herbs: Perilla, Baical skullcap, Feverfew, Ginger
Dietary aspect
Low reactive diet
Anti-Candida diet
IgG food intolerance testing
Inspect GI health and bowel flora
In all cases we do gut healing work and boost the good bacteria in
the large intestine. Slippery Elm, Glutamine, Aloe vera, Turmeric,
Quercetin
34
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
35. Naturopathic Treatment Options
Sinusitis
Very similar to Hayfever except when Chronic
Colloidal silver – antibacterial, good for infection in boney spaces
Herbs for immune support
Water for flushing
35
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
36. Naturopathic Treatment Options
Food Allergy & Intolerance
Food Allergy – can improve over time
Food Intolerance – definitely improves over time
Foods contain a huge range of substances that we can be
allergic/intolerant to
Proteins
Amines
Salicylates
Additives
36
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
37. Naturopathic Treatment Options
Food Allergy & Intolerance
Consider Food intolerance testing (IgG test)
But as first start Dairy and GF until test result arrives
Otherwise exclude for 3m and then move to the next suspect food
Or low reactive diet – pear, rice, lamb and most vege for 3m
37
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
38. Naturopathic Treatment Options
Food Allergy & Intolerance
In all cases we do gut healing work and boost the good bacteria
in the large intestine. Slippery Elm, Glutamine, Aloe
Vera, Turmeric, Quercetin
38
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
39. Naturopathic Treatment Options
Food Allergy & Intolerance
Cross reactivity
Some children who are allergic to cow's milk protein also show a
cross sensitivity to soy-based products.
People with latex allergy often also develop allergies to
bananas, kiwi, avocados, and some other foods
39
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
40. Final note:
More than one allergy can contribute to symptoms and then food
intolerances can further complicate the picture.
I try to be a detective when it comes to allergic symptoms
because there can be no complete improvement without
addressing the whole picture.
40
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688
41. Thanks for attending!
The Complete Health & Wellness Centre
Shop 2, 5 Murray Street
PORT MACQUARIE
Mob: 0432 978 688
Email: contact@karenarcher.com.au
Website: karenarcher.com.au
41
10/09/2012 Allergy Workshop Karen Archer - Naturopath - Mob: 0432978688