Aging and Allergies

Have you experienced a skin rash, irritated eyes, or a scratchy throat after spending too much time outside or after playing with a pet? Or maybe you’ve noticed certain foods are starting to give your hives or make it harder for you to breathe. These experiences may feel alarming, especially if you’ve never had this reaction before. But these adverse reactions could be the result of an adult-onset allergy. 

Adult-onset allergies are the development of allergies later in life. There’s still some uncertainty around why allergies may develop with age, but scientists believe it may be related to genetics or a family history of allergies. 

Types of Allergies

Allergies are when harmful substances trigger your immune system. These toxic substances are called allergens. People can be allergic to all sorts of substances. Some of the most common allergies are:

• Drug Allergies- Drug allergies are an adverse reaction to a medication. Some of the most common medication allergies are triggered by penicillin, anticonvulsants, aspirin, and ibuprofen. 
• Food Allergies- Food allergies happen when your body has an allergic reaction to certain foods, either by consumption or close contact. The most common food allergies are milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, and soy.
• Insect Allergies- Some people develop an allergic reaction to stinging insects, such as bees and wasps. Other people have bad reactions to biting bugs like mosquitoes or flies. It’s also possible to have an allergic reaction to cockroaches and dust mites, which are among the most common causes of year-round allergies and asthma.  
• Mold Allergies- People with a mold allergy tend to have poor reactions to mildew and fungi. Those with mold allergies tend to experience year-round symptoms as mold can grow in many indoor and outdoor environments. 
• Pollen Allergies- Pollen allergies are more commonly referred to as hay fever. It’s the most common trigger of seasonal allergies. 
• Pet Allergies- Pet allergies are most commonly caused by animals with furs, such as dogs and cats. It is possible to experience allergy symptoms if you contact something an animal used or sat on, such as a pillow or blanket.

If you believe you have allergies, it’s essential to communicate with your doctor. Some allergies can be life-threatening, so it’s vital to know your body and learn how to keep yourself safe. 

Allergies vs. Sensitivity 

There is a difference between having an allergy and having a sensitivity or intolerance to something. Allergies cause the body’s immune system to react and fight the allergy. Sensitivity or intolerance is typically used to describe how your body reacts to food that it cannot digest. You could also have a sensitivity to other allergens like medication or pets.

You will often experience hives, swelling, itching, trouble breathing, or dizziness in a true allergy. Allergy symptoms are severe and can be life-threatening. If you’re experiencing an allergic reaction, contact a medical professional immediately.

A sensitivity or intolerance to something is usually less severe than an allergy but still uncomfortable. Sensitivities and intolerances typically cause bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and cramping. If you believe you have a sensitivity or intolerance to a food, talk to your doctor about treatment options. 

How Visiting Angels Can Help

If you or an aging loved one suffers from allergies that make it challenging to complete daily tasks around the home, Visiting Angels Horsham, PA, can help! Our compassionate caregivers assist seniors with personal grooming, light housekeeping, meal preparations, medication reminders, and more. The Horsham office serves those in Horsham, Hatboro, Willow Grove, Ambler, Lower Gwynedd, Spring House, and the surrounding Pennsylvania communities. If you’re interested in learning more about our services, you can schedule a free consultation by completing this online form or calling us at 215.938. 7202.