Coughing is an extremely common reason why people go see their doctor. Some people seek help when they've been coughing for days, while other may wait years before going to the doctor. While the reason for a cough can usually be identified, and the cause treated, people with a chronic cough can be some of the most difficult cases to treat. If you, or someone you know, has a chronic cough, then read the following articles and find out the cause of your symptoms!

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• Chronic Cough
• Sinus Infections Causing Cough
• Cough-Variant Asthma

This weekend, millions of Americans will be celebrating the Fourth of July with outdoor picnics and fireworks. Along with these activities, however, comes exposure to various outdoor allergens. Pollen allergies, especially to grass, can be a big problem this time of year for many people. Insect allergies, including to mosquitoes and bees and yellow jackets, can keep some people indoors and prevent them enjoying an outdoor event. Allergies to smoke from barbeques and fireworks and worsen allergies and asthma. Last but not least, food allergies, caused by hidden ingredients in a potluck, can result in an unplanned visit to the emergency room. But, with a little planning for allergen avoidance, everyone can have a fun and safe Fourth of July Holiday. Read more about summer allergies...

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• Grass Pollen Allergy
• Insect Allergy
• BBQ Allergy

Insect allergies are a major problem during the summer months. People are more likely to participate in outdoor activities, such as swimming, hiking and yard work, and therefore are likely to come into contact with various insects. These insects, which are enjoying the warm weather as well, can sting people. Stinging insects, such as bees, wasps and yellow-jackets, can cause allergic reactions in certain people.

Preventing insect stings is the most important treatment of insect allergy. People should avoid looking or smelling like a flower, and not wear brightly colored clothing or flowery prints, and avoid wearing perfumes or other scents that may attract stinging insects. It is important to always wear pants, long-sleeved shirts, close-toed shoes and socks when working outdoors. In addition, a person should check food and drinks, particularly open cans of soda or drinks with straws, before eating or drinking outdoors, as yellow-jackets and other stinging insects are attracted to sugary treats.

Most people experience localized pain, itching and swelling as a result of being stung. However, some people experience more severe symptoms, including hives, difficulty breathing, or even life-threatening reactions as a result of an insect sting. Insect allergies are curable, so if you think you have an allergy to stinging insects, you should see an allergist to discuss treatment options.

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• Bee, Wasp and Hornet Allergy
• Fire Ant Allergy
• Identifying Which Stung You

There are thousands of substances, natural and artificial, added to foods for the purposes of coloring, flavoring and preserving. Food additives have been implicated as a cause of hives, swelling, asthma and a variety of other adverse symptoms. Find out more about reactions to food additives, what to look for and what foods to avoid.

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• All About Food Additive Allergy
• MSG Allergy
• Red Dye Allergy