During acupuncture treatment, many patients will experience reddening of the skin around the site of needle insertion. This is almost never something to be concerned about, but rather a sign that your body’s histamine response is in action!
What are histamines?
In the skin, histamines are chemical messengers that are stored in the white blood cells (mast cells and basophils). They are released as part of the inflammation process in response to allergens and injury. Histamines cause local blood vessels to dilate, which allows more blood to reach the affected area. This is the primary reason we see the increased redness and warmth around the acupuncture needle site. The release of histamines also causes blood vessels to become more porous, allowing white blood cells and blood plasma proteins to leave the bloodstream and repair the impacted tissue.
What happens if histamines are overactive?
When histamine is released in excessive amounts or accumulates faster than our bodies can break it down, a range of symptoms can occur. This may include itchy skin, hives, digestive discomfort, nasal congestion, headaches, brain fog, etc. In the springtime, seasonal allergens can cause a surge in histamine levels, which is why many people choose to take an antihistamine medication to block the effects of histamine and reduce their congestion or sneezing. Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), which is often influenced by genetic mutations, is a condition where mast cells become overactive and release histamine at an excessive rate. While redness around the site is normal, excessively red, and/or significantly itchy skin around an inserted acupuncture needle may be an indication of a more serious underlying condition.
Why is a histamine response encouraged in acupuncture?
Acupuncture needles cause a micro injury to the skin which activates the histamine response in our bodies. In addition to increasing blood flow and oxygen to the area, histamine also serves as a neuromodulator for pain. The release of histamine activates nearby sensory nerve endings, and these nerves then send signals to the spinal cord and brain. The brain responds through the release of endorphins and other descending, pain-inhibiting signals.
How long do the effects of histamine last?
Lingering, mild skin redness post-acupuncture treatment can last anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of days, depending on the individual. In time, the redness will decrease on its own, and no interventions such as heat, ice or topicals are necessary. This is a sign that the body’s histamine response has been activated and there is no need for concern.
