Can You Develop Allergies Later in Life? We Look at the Science Involved

If you’ve recently noticed symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, hives or reactions to foods that never bothered you previously, you may be wondering if it could be allergies. Though many people assume allergies begin during childhood, you may be surprised to learn that it’s possible to develop allergies later in life. While it’s not entirely clear why this happens, growing evidence suggests that a complex combination of factors may be the cause. 

In this article, we’ll explore causes and types of adult-onset allergies, highlight common symptoms and address when you should seek treatment for new allergies. 

We understand how bothersome it can be when allergy symptoms interfere with your daily life, but you don’t have to suffer. At Cary Medical Group, we offer safe and effective personalized treatment for allergies to help you manage symptoms, find relief and feel better. We invite you to contact us to schedule an appointment. 

Is It Possible to Develop Allergies Later in Life?

Yes, allergies can develop at any age. Adult-onset allergies are more common than people realize; allergists don’t consider them unusual.

Allergies happen when your immune system incorrectly identifies a harmless substance (an allergen), such as pollen, pet dander or certain foods, as a threat. The body then releases chemicals like histamine, which trigger allergy symptoms. 

It’s possible to tolerate common allergens for years before developing an allergic reaction.

What Causes Adult-Onset Allergies?

Researchers do not fully understand why adult-onset allergies occur. Evidence suggests that a combination of factors, rather than a single cause, likely contributes to developing allergies as an adult.

Potential causes may include:

• Immune system changes. Our immune system naturally evolves as we age and may begin reacting to substances it once tolerated.
• Genetics. Some people may inherit a tendency toward developing allergies.
• Hormonal fluctuations. Significant hormonal shifts during puberty, pregnancy or menopause can affect your immune response and heighten sensitivity, which may explain why women may be more likely to develop certain allergies during adulthood.
• Environmental exposure. If you move to a new region, you may be exposed to pollen, mold, grass or other allergens you haven’t previously encountered, triggering allergies. Additionally, long-term cumulative exposure to certain allergens may eventually trigger reactions.

What Types of Allergies Can Develop in Adulthood?

Many types of allergies can develop in adulthood. Adult-onset allergies may include:

• Environmental allergies to substances including grasses, weeds, pollen, mold and dust mites, leading to both seasonal and year-round symptoms
• Pet allergies, mostly to cats or dogs, but in some cases, to birds
• Food allergies, particularly to shellfish (shrimp, crab, lobster and clams), but also to tree nuts, milk, wheat or soy
• Medication allergies

You should be especially careful if you believe you have a food allergy, because food allergies can sometimes cause a severe reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis requires immediate emergency medical attention.

What Are Common Symptoms of Adult-Onset Allergies?

Adult-onset allergy symptoms are often similar to those associated with childhood or early-onset allergies. 

These may include:

• Respiratory symptoms, such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, coughing or nasal congestion 
• Skin symptoms, like itching, hives, rashes or swelling
• Digestive symptoms, including nausea, stomach discomfort, diarrhea or vomiting after eating trigger foods

The most reliable indicator that you have an allergy is a pattern of symptoms that consistently occur after exposure to the same substance. 

Symptoms can vary from mild to severe. If you have any of these serious symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention: 

• Wheezing
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat

When Should You Seek Treatment for New Allergies?

It’s important not to ignore first-time symptoms, even if previous exposure to allergy triggers has not caused a reaction. 

Even mild allergy symptoms can negatively impact your quality of life, interfering with your sleep, work and other daily routines. Because allergy symptoms can vary widely, appropriate evaluation and testing are often necessary. 

At Cary Medical Group, we can help identify the specific allergen responsible for your allergic reaction and create a personalized treatment plan for you.

It’s especially important to schedule an evaluation if you experience reactions after consuming certain foods. Food allergy symptoms can be unpredictable; mild symptoms can sometimes progress into life-threatening emergencies like anaphylaxis. 

As we mentioned in the previous section, serious symptoms such as breathing difficulties, swelling of the tongue or throat or other severe allergic reactions require immediate emergency medical attention. 

Cary Medical Group Provides Expert Care and Treatment of Adult-Onset Allergies 

It’s important not to dismiss allergy symptoms because they appear later in life. If you suspect you have adult-onset allergies, an accurate diagnosis can provide peace of mind. Early evaluation can help us identify triggers, create the right treatment plan for you and reduce the risk of future complications. 

We encourage you to contact us to schedule an appointment. We’ll create a personalized care plan to help you manage your allergy symptoms, find relief and feel better.