Effects of Targeted Acupuncture Methods Alongside Infrared Therapy on Symptom Relief and Quality of Life in Individuals with Allergic Rhinitis

By
Fan, Yan
Xing, Hongchao
April 3, 2026

Frontiers In Medicine

Overview

This study demonstrates that a standardized acupuncture protocol combined with infrared therapy significantly reduces symptoms and improves quality of life in patients with allergic rhinitis compared to loratadine alone. The intervention also shows a favorable safety profile with fewer adverse reactions.

Background

Allergic rhinitis is a common chronic condition that imposes considerable health and economic burdens globally. Conventional treatments often have limitations, prompting interest in complementary therapies such as acupuncture. This study evaluates an innovative acupuncture approach to enhance symptom relief and quality of life for affected individuals.

Data Highlights

Outcome	Study Group	Control Group	P-value
TNSS Reduction	Significant	Less Significant	<0.05
TNNSS Reduction	Significant	Less Significant	<0.05
VAS Score Improvement	Significant	Less Significant	<0.05
RQLQ Score Improvement	Significant	Less Significant	<0.05
Serum IgE Levels	Decreased	Less Decrease	<0.05

Key Findings

The study group showed significantly greater reductions in TNSS, TNNSS, and VAS scores compared to the control group.
Improvements in RQLQ scores were significantly greater in the study group at all time points.
Serum IgE levels and eosinophil counts decreased more in the study group.
Serum levels of IL-4, IL-6, and IFN-γ were significantly reduced in the study group.
The incidence of adverse reactions was significantly lower in the study group.

Clinical Implications

The findings suggest that integrating acupuncture with infrared therapy may offer a more effective and safer alternative for managing allergic rhinitis compared to standard pharmacotherapy. Clinicians may consider this approach for patients seeking complementary treatment options.

Conclusion

The study supports the efficacy of a combined acupuncture and infrared therapy protocol in managing allergic rhinitis, highlighting its potential as a viable non-pharmacological treatment option.