In fact, recent research shows that more people are developing food allergies in their adulthood.
Why Do Adults Develop New Allergies?
Scientists dont entirely know why someone might suddenly develop a new allergy.
Illustration by Zoe Hansen for Verywell Health.
But the immune system can sometimes react to certain proteins that aresufficiently similarto other allergens.
But so far, Greenberg said, theres no evidence that it plays a role in food allergies.
How Do You Know Whether Youre Allergic or Sensitive to Certain Foods?
Allergic reactions may involve varying symptoms, such as hives, swelling, and redness.
Severe reactions, calledanaphylaxis, can result in fatal respiratory problems.
Meanwhile, food sensitivity typically affects the gastrointestinal system and is often subjective.
It doesnt carry the same level of risk as the symptoms of a food allergy.
What were the first symptoms and how did the symptoms evolve over time?
What was ingested, including medications, in the hours leading up to the reaction?
If possible, get an ingredient list of what created the reaction.
Getting a skin prick test or blood test can also help confirm a food allergy diagnosis.
Can You Outgrow Adult-Onset Food Allergies?
But of the adult-onset group, the majority are diagnosed by age 40 or younger.
So our risk of developing a food allergy decreases significantly as we age.
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Food and Drug Administration.Food allergies.
