Do Allergies Worsen with Age?

Whether allergies worsen with age is a complex question with no simple answer. 

While some people experience worsening allergies as they get older, others see their symptoms improve or even disappear. 

Here’s a breakdown of the factors that can influence how allergies change with age:

Why Allergies Can Be Worse as We Age

Changes in the immune system: As we age, our immune system weakens and becomes less efficient. This can lead to increased sensitivity to allergens and more severe reactions.

Cumulative exposure: Over time, repeated exposure to allergens can build up the body’s sensitivity, leading to stronger reactions.

Environmental factors: Climate change is increasing pollen seasons and air pollution levels, which can exacerbate allergy symptoms.

New allergies: It’s possible to develop new allergies at any age, even if you haven’t experienced them before.

Why Allergies Can Improve as We Age

Natural desensitisation: Over time, some people develop a natural tolerance to the allergens they’re exposed to, leading to reduced symptoms.

Lifestyle changes: Avoiding triggers, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can all contribute to improved allergy control.

Medical interventions: Advances in allergy treatments, such as immunotherapy, can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

On Environmental Allergies

Dust mites: These microscopic creatures found in house dust are a major allergen for seniors, triggering symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.

Pollen: Seasonal allergies to grass, trees, and weeds can affect elders throughout the year, depending on the local pollen season.

Mould: Exposure to mould spores can cause respiratory problems, especially in seniors with weakened immune systems.

Medications: Unfortunately, some medications can trigger allergic reactions in older adults, causing skin rashes, hives, or even more severe problems.

On Food Allergies

Fruits and vegetables: Oral allergy syndrome, where pollen allergens cross-react with certain fruits and vegetables like apples, celery, or melons, is prevalent in seniors.

Nuts and seeds: Tree nuts, peanuts, and sesame seeds are frequent culprits behind food allergies in older adults.

Shellfish: Allergies to shrimp, crab, lobster, and shellfish are known to persist or develop later in life for some individuals.

Milk and eggs: While less common than in childhood, milk and egg allergies can still affect some seniors.

It’s important to note that these are just general trends, and individual experiences can vary. Some elders may have allergies not listed here, while others may not experience any allergies at all.

Other Considerations

Age of onset: Interestingly, some food allergies can develop for the first time in adulthood or even later in life.

Comorbidities: Elders with existing health conditions like asthma or chronic sinusitis may experience more severe allergy symptoms.

Medication interactions: Certain medications can worsen allergy symptoms or interfere with the effectiveness of allergy treatments.

If you’re concerned about allergies in an elder, seeking professional medical advice is crucial. A doctor can help diagnose the specific allergens, recommend appropriate treatment options, and ensure safe management of any potential interactions with medications.

Ultimately, whether your allergies worsen or improve with age depends on a combination of individual factors. It’s essential to consult with a doctor if you experience worsening allergy symptoms, as they can help identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatment options. For additional insights on promoting overall well-being in the elderly, explore “Why Mornings Matter for the Elderly“.