Doctor explains why allergies can develop in adulthood

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Allergies that a person has never experienced before can develop in adulthood. Symptoms may also become more severe because of changes in the immune system, repeated exposure to allergens and environmental factors such as air pollution.

According to lifestyle website Real Simple on Friday (29 October), changes in the immune system with age can reduce a person’s tolerance to certain allergens.

Kara Wada, MD, a US-based quadruple board-certified allergy and immunology specialist, said repeated exposure to pollen can trigger allergic sensitivity, particularly when combined with other factors such as pregnancy, stress, illness, changes in metabolism or moving to an area with different types of allergens.

However, getting older does not necessarily make allergies worse. Wada said allergy symptoms generally improve among older people, particularly after the age of 65.

This is associated with immunosenescence, the changes in immune system function that occur with age.

In addition, adults who experience nasal congestion or repeated sneezing do not necessarily have allergic rhinitis.

Allergy and immunology specialist Meagan W. Shepherd, MD, said these symptoms can also be caused by non-allergic rhinitis. The two conditions have similar symptoms, but their causes and treatments differ.

Shepherd advised people experiencing new symptoms or allergies that are becoming more troublesome to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.