This time of year there is a buzz around the city about the common cold– who is coughing, who is trying to boost their immune system to ward it off, who is just recovering, etc. I’ve had several people come for treatment this season complaining of cough, congestion, sinus pain, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes and a whole host of uncomfortable symptoms. While an acupuncture treatment can go a long way to recovering from the common cold and immune imbalances that predispose one to catch infections, one of the most powerful tools is actually a simple home remedy.
Before discussing treatment options, it is first important to cover basic head and respiratory anatomy and an often misunderstood scientific theory of focal infections. Location and function of the nose and lungs, and what goes awry when one contracts a cold, are easily understood by most. However, the role of the throat or pharynx and the Eustachian tubes, or what connects the middle ear to the nose and throat is less common knowledge. The result of these connections is that, especially in children, ear infections another respiratory infections are related and might trigger one another. In fact, medical research shows that chronic and acute ear infections as well as recurrent throat problems are often due to a condition known as nasopharyngitis, or inflammation of the area between the nose and throat.
The focal infection theory posits that a latent or hidden infection can reside in the body for years, weaken the immune system and become symptomatic when one is stressed or weakened. Since over-the-counter cold and flu medicines such as nasal sprays and cough syrups treat the nose and throat but leave the nasopharynx largely untouched, pathogenic factors may be harbored here. Studies show that not only can nasopharyngitis lead to respiratory flare-ups or recurring cases of colds and flu, but also seemingly unrelated issues including dermatitis, autonomic nervous system disturbances and even digestive issues (often from post-nasal drip).
The solution is what is called nasopharyngeal rinsing, and the most common way to accomplish such a rinse is saltwater in a neti pot. Using a neti pot at home, especially if done with frequency such as 4-5 times a week for a month or two, is highly effective in conjunction with acupuncture treatment. I have seen patients with years of recurring sinus pain and congestion make dramatic improvements. Another tip: the neti rinse is often more effective when tilting your head straight back, rather than to the side. Just think of it as making a toast to your health!
After this type of cleansing of the nasopharynx, acupuncture can boost the immune system to prevent a reoccurrence and help clear any remaining congestion or irritation.
