A new laser device originating from Australia has recently become available in the United States. It claims to help patients essential zap away their allergies. But many experts question whether the results are for real, so it's important to find out more before you invest in this unusual treatment form.

The Need for Laser Allergy Treatments

With more people experiencing severe allergy symptoms than ever before, many sufferers are eager for a magic cure from  the typically symptoms that are associated with seasonal and indoor triggers. That's why in recent years a variety of alternative allergy treatments, including this new laser device, have made it into the spotlight, offering new hope for people whose allergies don't respond to more conventional strategies.

The Concept of Laser Treatment for Allergies

This new laser device relies on biofeedback methods to help "reset" the immune system and head off its reaction to allergens. This is accomplished using the following two-pronged approach:

  • First, participants are hooked up to a piece of equipment that exposes them to the frequency of thousands of common allergens to test which ones trigger an immune system reaction.
  • Next, a laser is used to activate acupuncture pressure points in the body and desensitize them to these allergens so the immune system will no longer respond to their presence.

Are Laser Allergy Treatments Right for You?

While there isn't any science to back up this unusual treatment strategy, there are anecdotal reports from patients who say that this has helped them feel much better. Yet many experts remain skeptical about the results. This is why it's essential that you talk to your doctor and do your own research before you decide to try this treatment. Also keep in mind that while alternative allergy treatment methods may have merit for some patients, if you're prone to experiencing a serious allergic reaction, it's always safer to stick with the tried and true methods of allergy control.

Allergy Control Recommendations

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI) says the best way to control allergies is to see an allergist and undergo testing to identify your allergy triggers and determine how best to treat them. Usually a combination of avoiding your biggest allergens and using allergy control medications can make a difference. For allergies that are particularly difficult to manage, sometimes using immunotherapy or allergy injections can also be helpful to desensitize you to your allergens.

In addition, if you suffer from extreme nasal and sinus congestion related to allergies, you might ask your doctor about a surgical procedure that uses lasers to shrink the blood cells in the nose in order to relieve congestion and pressure. This is a completely different procedure than the one performed using the Australian laser biofeedback device, so it's important not to get the two treatments confused.

 


 

Sources:

"Allergic Reactions: Tips to Remember." American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. AAAAI.org, n.d. Web. 27 Sept. 2011.

"Laser Sinus Treatment (SMR)." Methodist Health System. Methodhealthsystem.org, n.d. Web. 18 Sept. 2011.

"New Allergy Treatment Comes In Laser Form." NewsChannel5.com, 19 Aug. 2009. Web. 18 Sept. 2011.