Perhaps you visit your sister one day, only to find that you start sneezing and coughing when you pet her dog. Alternatively, you may eat a handful of almonds and break out in hives. These symptoms sound a lot like allergies, but you’re an adult. Don’t allergies just appear in kids? Las Vegas allergies can appear at any age, from childhood to adulthood. Here’s what to know about adult-onset allergies.
What are Common Allergies in Adults?
If you suspect that you may be having an allergic reaction, it helps to know what some of the most common allergies are that develop in adulthood. Peanuts, shellfish (particularly lobster and shrimp), and tree nuts, including pecans, cashews, walnuts, and almonds, are some of the most frequently diagnosed allergies in adults. Seasonal allergies are also common. Approximately 18 million adults have allergic rhinitis or hay fever, caused by allergies to mold, grass, and pollen. Allergies to pet dander and medication can also appear in adulthood.
Allergy Symptoms
Allergy symptoms vary widely depending on the allergen itself and the severity of your allergies. Allergies to environmental substances such as grass and pollen tend to cause respiratory symptoms and sneezing or itchy, watery eyes. Food allergies can cause more severe problems such as hives and difficulty breathing. Food allergies may also cause digestive problems.
Why Do Allergies Develop?
Researchers believe that having allergies in childhood, including even just one severe episode, increases your risk of developing allergies as an adult. Having a family history of allergies also increases your risk. Other contributing factors include having exposure to allergens when your immune system function is lower, such as when you are sick or pregnant. Additionally, having little exposure to an allergen when you’re younger can increase your risk of developing adult allergies. Moving to a new place or working in an environment with new allergens can also trigger allergies.
Treating Allergies
Treatment for allergies will vary based on the allergies in question. A Las Vegas allergist can provide useful tips on avoiding an allergen, such as reducing your time outside when pollen counts are highest. You may also need medication to control your allergies. If you suspect a food allergy, contact your doctor right away, as you may need to get medication to prevent a life-threatening allergic reaction. It’s also important to note that even if you have had a mild reaction to food allergies in the past, subsequent reactions may be more severe.
If you’re suffering from allergies or asthma, don’t wait to get help. Contact Dr. Tottori, a renowned Las Vegas allergist, for an appointment today. You can easily schedule an appointment by calling (702) 240 4233 or visiting our website.
