Provides overview of tests used to find out what a person might be allergic to. Covers skin and blood tests. Explains why and how each test is done. Discusses risks. Explains results and offers points to consider before having tests.

Cockroaches leave behind particles from their feces, eggs, and shells that can cause an allergic reaction. These particles, called antigens, can travel through the air, and you can breathe them into your lungs. They can cause coughing, sneezing,

If your child has had a severe allergic reaction ( anaphylaxis) in the past, you know how frightening it can be. Symptoms of breathing problems, itching, belly pain, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, and swelling can come on quickly and become life-threatening. Giving your child an epinephrine shot can slow down or stop an...

Covers giving yourself an epinephrine shot to slow down or stop an allergic reaction. Includes directions for how to give yourself the shot and what to do afterward.

Explains what immunotherapy is and why it is done. Lists specific allergies treated by immunotherapy. Covers how it is done, how well it works, and what to expect after treatment. Covers things that increase risk.

All warm-blooded pets, such as cats, dogs, birds, and rodents, have dead skin cells (pet dander) and make urine or droppings. These things can all trigger symptoms, such as wheezing or coughing, or another allergic reaction, such as the rash of...

Provides links to info on sore throats, ear infections, and sinusitis. Also has info on mononucleosis tests and decision aids for sleep apnea and allergies.

Briefly discusses respiratory problems that babies and children can have. Covers viral and bacterial infections, allergies, and asthma. Offers interactive tool to help decide when to seek care. Also offers home treatment tips.

Make sure you know about each of the medicines you take. This includes why you take it, how to take it, what you can expect while you're taking it, and any warnings about the medicine. The information provided here is general. So be sure to read the information that came with your medicine. If you have any questions or...

Briefly discusses common causes of skin rashes in those 12 and older. Covers allergies, chronic skin problems like eczema, and contact with poisonous plants like poison oak. Offers interactive tool to help decide when to seek care. Also offers home treatment tips.

Covers questions about asthma during pregnancy and labor. Looks at treatment with medicines. Includes treatment of allergies. Covers safety of steroids for pregnant mother and baby.

Briefly discusses causes of coughs in children, including common cold, bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, allergies, choking, and chemicals in the air. Offers interactive tool to help decide when to seek care. Also offers home treatment tips.

Briefly discusses common causes of ear injuries and problems, including infection, fluid buildup, and allergies. Offers interactive tool to help decide when to seek care. Also offers home treatment tips.

When you have asthma, certain things can make your symptoms worse. These things are called triggers. Things that you're allergic to can trigger your asthma. They may include: Dust. Dust mites. These are tiny, nearly invisible creatures. They live in bedding, carpet, and furniture. Cockroach droppings. Animals with fur...

Indoor mold (fungus) is very common in humid areas and in homes that have damp areas such as basements. Mold may trigger symptoms, such as wheezing or coughing, or another allergic reaction, such as the rash of atopic dermatitis or the stuffy nose...

Antibiotics are drugs used to kill bacteria. Bacteria can cause infections such as strep throat, ear infections, and pneumonia. These medicines can't cure everything. They don't kill viruses or help with allergies. And they don't help illnesses such as the common cold, the flu, or a runny nose. Antibiotics are generally...

Exposure to indoor air pollutants can cause respiratory problems, such as asthma attacks. It can also cause diseases, such as lung cancer. Pollutants include smoke, pet dander, radon, mold, cleaning products, and other chemicals. You can create a healthier home by following the tips below. Reduce allergens. If pets make...

What is lactose intolerance? Lactose intolerance is a problem that makes it hard to digest lactose. Lactose is a type of natural sugar found in milk and dairy products. This condition isn't the same thing as a food allergy to milk. When lactose moves through the large intestine (colon) without being properly digested...