I feel like I have symptoms of a cold all the time, thought the symptoms never seem to develop into a full blown cold. I just feel under-the-weather. I'm in my thirties. Can you help?

You many be suffering from allergies. Allergies are extremely common and can produce a multitude of symptoms, of different severity and intensity.

As long as you have checked with your GP and have had a full range of tests to ensure that you are not suffering from any underlying illness, it may be time to try out a naturopathic approach to allergies. Obviously, the most important advice is to try to identify what may be causing the problem and eliminate it, or decrease exposure to it.

If you are working in an office environment, there could be a problem with the ventilation. There may be too much dust from office plants, flowers, chemicals or sprays.

The problem could also stem from an allergic reaction to certain types of foods. Lack of exercise, stress, not enough sleep or fresh air will exacerbate allergic symptoms, as will food and beverages that put stress on the body, such as alcohol and coffee.

Allergies put constant stress on the immune system and, over a long period of time, can compromise the essential workings of the body. It is important to visit a naturopath or health care practitioner who can help build up your immune system and cleanse your liver. It is very hard to recover from allergies without a strong immune system and functional liver.

It is possible to get tested for allergies. It may be an idea to try an 'elimination diet' under supervision to try to establish which food is putting stress on your system.

Generally, it is vital to improve nutrition, introduce a good multivitamin, consume plenty fresh healthy foods, particularly foods rich in vitamin c, and take a CoQ 10 supplement. Mild exercise like yoga may help. Homeopathy can be very successful with allergies, as can acupuncture or electro acupuncture (no needles).

When your immune system has been strengthened, it may be advisable to go on a detox diet, under supervision, which will cleanse and nourish the body. It is important that these measures are introduced permanently; otherwise you will find yourself experiencing the same symptoms again. These are permanent lifestyle changes, not quick fixes.

A great help for people with stuffed sinuses from either colds or allergic reactions is this home remedy. Liquidize shallots, red cabbage, garlic, green chillies, ginger, radishes and cider vinegar. Store in a glass jar. Use one or two tablespoons with your meals or on a side salad.

Always consult your GP before starting any new regime or self treatment. The contents of this article are for information purposes only and are not intended to prevent, diagnose or cure any medical conditions.

If you would like a question covered, contact The Clinic of Complementary and Natural Medicine, Kiltartan House, Forster St., Galway on 091- 568804.

Dr H Bhatti is the President of the Association of Naturopathic Practitioners and can be contacted at his clinics at Kiltartan House, Forster Street, Galway at 091-568804 or at The Village Nursing Care Centre, Ballygarriff, Craughwell on 091-777700.

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