Pollen allergies, commonly known as hay fever or seasonal allergies, occur when the immune system overreacts to airborne pollen. These tiny grains, released by trees, grasses, and weeds, are recognized as harmful intruders by the body. This immune response triggers a cascade of chemicals, including histamine, leading to uncomfortable symptoms.
Yes, Allergies Can Emerge Later in Life
It is possible for individuals to develop pollen allergies at any point in their lives, including adulthood. While allergies often manifest during childhood, many adults experience new allergic reactions later on. This phenomenon, termed adult-onset allergies, is not uncommon. The immune system is dynamic and can change its sensitivities over time, leading to new responses to previously tolerated substances.
Why Allergies Develop in Adulthood
The development of adult-onset pollen allergies can stem from various factors influencing the immune system’s response. Changes within the immune system can make it more sensitive to allergens it once ignored. Hormonal shifts, such as those occurring during pregnancy or menopause, can also influence immune function and sensitivity.
New or increased exposure to specific pollen types plays a significant role. Moving to a new geographical area with different flora, or changes in lifestyle that increase exposure to certain pollens, can trigger an allergic response.
Cross-reactivity, where the immune system confuses proteins in certain pollens with similar proteins in some foods, can lead to oral allergy syndrome (OAS) or pollen-food allergy syndrome (PFAS). Sensitized to pollen, the immune system misidentifies similar proteins in raw fruits, vegetables, or nuts as the same allergen. Symptoms of OAS typically involve itching or swelling of the lips, mouth, or throat, and usually appear within minutes of consuming the trigger food.
Environmental factors also contribute to the development or exacerbation of allergic responses. Air pollution, for example, can influence the immune system and has been linked to increased severity of allergic rhinitis. Other environmental irritants can also play a role in triggering or worsening allergic symptoms.
Identifying New Allergy Symptoms
Pollen allergy symptoms commonly involve the respiratory system and eyes. Individuals often experience sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, and itchy, watery, or red eyes. An itchy throat, ears, or palate, along with a cough, are also frequently reported.
Distinguishing these symptoms from a common cold is important. Allergy symptoms tend to be persistent, lasting for weeks or months during specific pollen seasons, while cold symptoms typically resolve within a few days. Allergies generally do not present with a fever or body aches, which are more indicative of a viral infection.
Seeking Diagnosis and Managing Symptoms
If pollen allergy symptoms are persistent, severe, or interfere with daily life, seeking medical attention is advisable. An allergist, a doctor specializing in allergies, can perform diagnostic tests to identify specific allergens.
Common diagnostic methods include a skin prick test, where a small amount of allergen is pricked onto the skin, and a reaction (redness, swelling, or itchiness) indicates an allergy. Blood tests, such as a specific IgE antibody test, can also measure the immune system’s response to different pollens. These tests help confirm which pollens are triggering the allergic reactions.
Managing pollen allergies involves a combination of approaches. Minimizing exposure to pollen is a primary step, including keeping windows closed during high pollen counts and showering after outdoor activities.
Over-the-counter medications like antihistamines can relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose, while decongestants help with stuffiness. Nasal sprays, including corticosteroid sprays, can reduce nasal inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
For more severe cases, a doctor might prescribe stronger medications or recommend immunotherapy, which involves gradually exposing the immune system to increasing doses of the allergen to build tolerance.