The Most Common Adult-Onset Allergies
Are you one of the 50 million people in the US that suffer from allergies?
Allergies cost the US around $20 billion every single year. How much do they cost an individual for specialist creams, pills, and prescriptions?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for allergies. But, with modern-day medicine, we are able to alleviate symptoms somewhat with treatment.
Of course, the best way to manage your allergies is through avoidance and prevention. In this article, we’ll look at the most common adult-onset allergies which usually develop in your twenties or thirties.
1. Animal Dander
Sadly, not everyone loves Fido. If you’re allergic to animal dander, then you can’t simply adopt a hypoallergenic pet. These animals still produce small flecks of skin that can trigger allergies.
It can take some time for an animal dander allergy to show itself. But, when it does you will experience symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, a cough, facial pain, itchy eyes, and more.
Currently, those who are allergic to animal dander can take antihistamines that are available over the counter. But, this is not recommended long-term. Speak to your doctor about solutions that will work for you and do not get a pet!
2. Dust Mites
You won’t know if you have dust mites as they are impossible to see with the naked eye. But, you will experience symptoms such as a runny nose and sneezing. In more extreme cases, you may find it harder to breathe.
There are many treatments to consider such as antihistamines, decongestants to make it easier to breathe, and nasal steroids.
But, one of the best ways to avoid dust mites is to keep your house spotless. This involves regularly using a vacuum that has a special filter. Wash your sheets and steam your furniture.
If your allergies are very severe, then switching from carpet to hardwood floor is a good idea as dust mites live in the dust in carpets.
3. Pollen
Walking through the woods during spring should be a wonderful experience. But, for those who have developed a pollen allergy, this can be nothing but painful.
Hay fever will result in a runny nose, itchy eyes, a scratchy throat and cough, and even swollen eyes. Again, antihistamines are a useful treatment method. But, speak to your doctor if you’re experiencing severe symptoms.
4. Food
You may unexpectedly develop an allergy to food in your twenties or thirties. The most common food allergies are to nuts, cows milk, molluscs, soy, eggs, wheat, and fish. An allergy test can easily flag which of these foods you are allergic to if you’re not sure.
You may be required to carry an EpiPen as some food allergies can be fatal without quick treatment.
Once you learn which foods you are allergic to, you will need to completely avoid them. Although you may only have mild symptoms to certain foods, these can develop over time.
Take a Test for Adult-Onset Allergies
If you think you’re suffering from allergies but aren’t sure what’s triggering your reaction, then consider taking an allergy test.
This will give you a clearer idea of your triggers and how to treat the symptoms. Adult-onset allergies are irritating and come out of nowhere, but speak to your doctor about how they can help you.
Alternatively, you can order an allergy test from us. You can also contact us if you want more information about allergy onset testing.