More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year, representing a cost of more than $18 billion annually.  In addition, allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S. 

Fall allergy symptoms are enough to make anyone miserable. Don’t compound your problem by falling prey to common allergy myths.

We’ve compiled some of the most common allergy misconceptions. Can you separate fact from fiction?

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Sniffles, sneezes and sore throats are all common signs of colds, sinus infections and the flu. These diseases affect millions of Americans each year. 

Treating these conditions is challenging enough, but because they have so many similar symptoms, how can you tell them apart? Knowing the difference is important because it can determine the best course of treatment and home care strategies. 

We’ve provided this handy guide to help you. First, we look at the common symptoms of each illness and then examine the distinct differences between them.

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Back to school means more than a new set of pencils or backpacks. It means your child is going to be extensively exposed to germs, which can pave the way for colds, sinus problems and other illnesses throughout the school year. 

How many germs are in your child’s classroom?

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When you have sinus problems, you need solutions. Quickly. Every day you suffer through sinus issues means you’re losing ground at work, missing out on the activities you love and, well, feeling absolutely miserable.

The challenge facing sinus treatment is that there are hundreds of conditions that can cause nasal / sinus symptoms. Perhaps you have a nasal polyp or a deviated septum that is making it difficult for your sinuses to drain properly. Is immunotherapy or a balloon sinuplasty the best method of treatment?

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At first glance, there seems to be very little difference between an audiologist and a hearing aid dispenser. There are extensive differences in the education, clinical expertise and services offered by audiologists and hearing aid dispensers. For example, did you know that audiologists are required to have more than 1,800 hours of clinical training? Did you know they work closely with ENT doctors to help treat tinnitus and balance disorders? We realize these differences can be confusing. We compiled a comparative chart to help you better understand the important role audiologists play in your care.

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Eyeglasses, vitamins, groceries…almost everything can be bought online. With retail giants like Amazon selling items ranging from computers to emergency medical supplies, it may seem logical to save money by purchasing your hearing aids online. While it may seem like you’re getting a deal, our audiologists caution that there’s much more to consider than merely getting a good deal. Purchasing a less expensive hearing aid online may actually cost you more money in the long run---and your online “bargain” may not resolve your hearing problems. 

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All parents want to do everything in their power to ensure their sons and daughters have the best possible academic start in life. This involves researching the best schools, discovering the most reputable day cares, and providing toys that are educational as well as entertaining. 

But how many parents watch for the early signs of a speech disorder?

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It’s hard to believe, but the man with one of the most well-recognized voices on the planet used to stutter. 
James Earl Jones-- the actor whose strong, resonating vocals were featured in the Star Wars saga—stuttered so severely when he was a child that he barely spoke to anyone for eight years. 
Your son or daughter may not have a world-famous voice, but to you, those sweet, beautiful syllables are the most precious sounds on earth. It’s heartbreaking to watch your child struggle to read aloud or have a conversation. 

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Vertigo is more than a mere sense of dizziness. It’s a condition that can make tasks of daily living challenging at best. If you’ve ever had the feeling that the entire room was spinning accompanied by nausea and maybe even vomiting, you may be experiencing vertigo.

Vertigo is considered a vestibular disorder. This group of disorders affects the vestibular system which helps your body and brain maintain balance.  One-third of Americans 40 and older have some sort of vestibular disorder. 

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Recently, Raleigh, NC was listed as one of the top 100 most challenging places to live if you have allergies.  The list is part of an annual report compiled by the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America. The ranking takes into account factors such as pollen count and medication utilization. Raleigh ranked #88, while Durham clocked in at #57.  (In case you’re curious, Jackson, Mississippi earned the dubious #1 “honor.”) Of course, this top 100 ranking will come as no surprise to Triangle residents who suffer through allergy season with sore throats and runny noses.  If this sounds all too familiar, you’re not alone. 

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