Can You Develop Allergies in Adulthood?
Most allergies are typically developed in childhood or during the teenage years, but it is possible to develop them at any age. Many adults who never had allergies as a child may find that they suddenly become allergic to something new. An allergy flare-up can range from mild to severe and may become life-threatening in some cases.
Allergies occur when your body’s immune system overreacts to a foreign substance. For example, if you are allergic to pollen, your body mistakenly identifies the allergen as a threat and releases a chemical called histamine in an attempt to fight it off. Unfortunately, histamine can cause irritating and sometimes dangerous symptoms such as runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing, or difficulty breathing.
Can You Outgrow an Allergy?
Although you can develop new allergies later in life, the same goes for outgrowing allergies. Allergies can come and go with age, so it’s possible to outgrow an allergy during adulthood. They may also change over time, so even if you don’t outgrow an allergy, your symptoms may become less severe or more manageable.
However, even if you outgrow an allergy, you may still need to take precautions when in contact with the allergen. This is especially true for food allergies, which can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening.
Reasons Why You May Develop Allergies in Adulthood
Many factors may increase your risk of developing an allergy later in life. For instance, if you move to a new area, you may be exposed to environmental allergens and climates that your body isn’t used to. This may cause an immune system overreaction, leading to allergy symptoms. An allergy flare-up may also be triggered by certain medications, stress, or changes in your lifestyle. Moreover, if you have asthma, you may be at a higher risk of developing an allergy since the two conditions are closely linked.
Find Allergy Relief with Northeast Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology
If you are suffering from allergies, it’s important to speak with a medical professional for diagnosis and treatment. At Northeast Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, we can help alleviate your allergy symptoms and get you back to feeling your best. From children to adults, our team of experienced allergists is here to provide you with the care and knowledge needed to live a healthier life. Schedule an appointment today to find out how we can help you find relief from your allergy symptoms.
