Aging can lead to the development of new allergies, which may appear suddenly and without warning. Adults, particularly those in their 30s and 40s, can start to experience allergic reactions to substances that never bothered them before. Allergists Lily Pien, MD, and Dylan Timberlake, MD, explain why these allergies can occur and what can be done to manage them.

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New allergies often emerge after repeated exposure to allergens. Dr. Timberlake notes that each encounter with an allergen can potentially trigger an immune system reaction. Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause may also affect how the immune system responds to allergens. Additionally, relocating to a different environment can expose individuals to unfamiliar allergens, leading to allergic reactions.

Stress may weaken the immune system, making a person more susceptible to reactions from allergens that previously posed no threat. Individuals with a history of eczema or asthma are also at greater risk for developing adult-onset allergies.

Common adult allergies include:

- **Food allergies**: Approximately 10% of U.S. adults have food allergies, with half of these occurring in adulthood. Common allergens are peanuts, tree nuts, and seafood.

- **Seasonal allergies**: Common outdoor allergens like tree pollen, grass, and ragweed can trigger symptoms.

- **Indoor allergens**: Dust mites and mold can cause similar symptoms as outdoor allergens.

- **Pet allergies**: Individuals can suddenly develop reactions to pets due to increased exposure or changes in their immune system.

- **Insect stings**: While many people do not react strongly to an initial sting, later stings can lead to serious allergic responses.

- **Medications**: The immune system may begin to react to specific medications, such as antibiotics or pain relief medications.

Symptoms of adult-onset allergies vary but typically include:

- A runny or stuffy nose

- Sneezing

- Itchy or watery eyes

- Hives or rashes

- Swelling of the lips, face, or throat

- Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting

- Difficulty breathing

Diagnosis of adult-onset allergies involves testing. Individuals should consult a healthcare provider if they experience persistent symptoms despite using over-the-counter medications, notice a pattern in their symptoms, or react strongly to certain foods. New allergies can take three to five years to develop, so recent allergy testing may be recommended.

Once allergies are confirmed, management options include:

- **Avoidance**: The most effective way to prevent allergic reactions is to avoid known allergens.

- **Medications**: Over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays can alleviate symptoms.

- **Allergy shots**: Immunotherapy injections can help retrain the immune system to reduce reactions to specific allergens.

While allergies that develop in adulthood are often persistent, there are effective strategies for managing them. It is advisable for affected individuals to consult with a doctor or allergist to discuss their specific situations and treatment options.