Can bee pollen cause a persistent dry cough?

I have been taking bee pollen--approximately on and off for about twenty years now. However, during the past couple of years I haven't been as consistent with taking it. About six months ago I started it up again by starting with a few grains and working my way up to about 1/2 tsp. In April I developed a dry hacking cough--usually in the morning, evening and after I eat. I have had this cough for over 4 months now and am starting to get worried as it is not going away. Could the bee pollen be the cause of this cough? Anyone with a similar experience?

Angela's Response:

What I would suggest is to stop taking the bee pollen for a week or two and monitor if your cough improves or not. Bee pollen could be causing the cough - you could have a pollen allergy. But since you've taken pollen for 20 years, I'd be quite surprised if this was the case. But, every body is very unique physiologically so the best thing to do with any supplement is to discontinue use for a short time and monitor your symptoms.

There is also the possibility that you do in fact have mild allergies that didn't 'appear' during the 20 years of taking pollen because you were supplementing and regularly taking it. By stopping the pollen, your allergies may have 'reappeared' during April, which is the peak allergy season for many.

You may also want to record a food diary and examine what/if any foods make your cough worse. The two big culprits I see regularly are dairy and wheat (gluten). Also check your air filter in your house and other potential environmental irritants.