What Are Common Risk Factors for Allergies?

Your immune system works to protect your body from diseases, viruses and infections. But for more than 50 million Americans, their immune systems mistake harmless substances, such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, certain foods, mold and insect stings, as dangerous intruders and overreact. This is known as an allergic reaction.

But why does this overreaction happen? There are several possible risk factors, which we review below.

Genetics

The greatest factor that can impact whether or not you have allergies is genetics. If you have a family history of allergies, you’re much more likely to suffer from them than someone without a family history. Hay fever, hives and eczema are all known to be common within families, but food allergies, in particular, have been pinpointed to a specific gene passed from parent to child.

One study published in Allergy and Asthma Proceedings: Medical Journals explains that, “It is clear that a family history (genetics) is the strongest risk factor for the development of clinic atopic disease, but it is also clear that environmental issues play a significant role and that there is a lot we still do not know.”

Environment

Environment is another factor that can affect the presence of allergies and allergy symptoms. While one theory is that early exposure to allergens such as pollen at Bush’s Pasture Park during infancy can prevent allergies from developing, another theory is that it is good to reduce exposure to allergens in infancy to prevent allergies later in life.

There is one environmental factor that has been proven: smoking during pregnancy increases a child’s risk of developing allergies, and exposure to secondhand smoke for infants and young children can have the same effect.

Asthma

If you suffer from asthma, a chronic lung condition, you’re at an increased risk of experiencing allergies, as well. In addition, asthma is oftentimes a complication of allergies, and symptoms can be triggered by exposure to allergens.

Childhood

Children are more likely to have allergies than adults because their immune systems are underdeveloped. Many children outgrow their allergies as their immune systems grow stronger. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call Willamette ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery today.

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