VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Most people think allergies begin in childhood, but that’s not always the case. Many adults are surprised to find symptoms developing later in life, especially in their 30s and 40s. In reality, allergies can appear at almost any age, even if you’ve never had issues before.
So, what causes this sudden change? One major factor is repeated exposure. Over time, your immune system can become sensitive to substances it once ignored. Things like pollen, dust, or pet dander may not have triggered a reaction before, but with enough exposure, your body can start treating them as harmful, leading to allergy symptoms.
Hormonal changes can also influence how your body reacts. Life stages such as puberty, pregnancy, or even changes in overall health can shift your immune response, making you more prone to developing allergies…