Most Common Allergies Adults Face

By Ruby M

Much like childhood allergies, adult-onset allergies are a big problem for some people. And how exactly we develop allergies is not exactly understood. What studies have shown is that there is a complexity of both genetic and environmental factors that come into play, and that usually, it is the body’s reaction to a particular substance which takes the form of an allergy. Here are a few of the most common allergies that adults experience. 

Shellfish

The most common allergy that likes to act up in adulthood is shellfish. Mollusks and Crustaceans are the two kinds of shellfish that exist. If you are allergic to one, you are probably allergic to the other. It is estimated that between 0.5 and 2.5% – which is quite a large amount of people, deal with this allergy. The reaction is caused by the immune system’s response to a protein present in the fish. Symptoms usually occur within an hour after contact can include hives, itching of the skin, swelling of the face, lips, throat, and tongue.

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Peanuts

Almost 1 in 5 American adults from the age of 18 or older develops an allergy to this nutty treat. Scientists have suggested that developing a peanut allergy in adulthood is a direct response to the immune system reacting negatively to the protein found in peanuts. The body then releases chemicals causing symptoms similar to that of shellfish such as digestive problems, itchy or tingling skin, tightening of the throat, and shortness of breath.

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Medications

Many adults discover they have reactions to medications later in life, most commonly penicillin, opiates, radiocontrast media, and local anesthetics. Despite the fact that as a child and even as a teen you could take these drugs with no reactions, you are still at risk to developing an allergy as an adult due to hormone changes. Symptoms include rash, nausea, dizziness, tightness of chest, and fever. Severe reactions include weak or rapid breathing, drop in blood pressure, and even seizures.

Adults can develop many allergies as they get older, including reactions from environmental changes such as dust or mold, or even bodily changes like the consumables we have mentioned here. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and feel like you may be developing a new allergy, it’s best to consult your doctor as soon as possible.