Allergic disease is a common problem affecting about 1 in 5 Americans, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Allergic disease encompasses allergic rhinitis, food allergies, allergies to insect stings and allergies to medications. Allergic rhinitis, or a runny nose due to allergies, presents with symptoms of a runny nose, itchy eyes and sneezing. Food allergies and allergies to insect stings or medications are more likely to present with skin rashes or a systemic allergic reaction with shortness of breath, dizziness and vomiting.
Development
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the immune system's normal function involves fighting harmful substances such as bacteria, viruses and parasites. In some people, however, the immune system attempts to fight off harmless substances such as pollen, mold and pet dander. In these people the immune system makes antibodies to these harmless substances. When these people encounter the substance again, the antibodies--known as immunoglobulin E--react and produce a cascade of events that results in the release of inflammatory substances. These inflammatory mediators produce the symptoms of an allergic response.
Genetics
Genetics, or the genes that are passed from parent to child, are believed to play a role in the development of allergic disease. A child with a parent or sibling with allergic disease is more likely to develop allergic disease himself. Additionally, a child with a history of eczema or asthma is more likely to develop food allergies or allergic rhinitis, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Environment
Certain environmental factors play a role in the development of allergies. Exposure to an allergen is needed for an allergy to develop. For example, exposure to cats has to occur for a person to develop symptoms of allergic rhinitis to cat dander. As discussed by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, exposure to the allergen may take several years before the allergy develops. Additionally, exposure to cigarette smoke as a child increases the chance that a person will contract allergies.
Time Frame
Allergic rhinitis tends to develop later in life, though it may be present in children as young as 18 months. Food allergy, however, is more common in children, with 6 to 8 percent of children under age 3 affected while only 4 percent of adults are affected. Allergies to insect stings and medications also tend to present in late childhood or early adulthood likely because the patient is not exposed to these potential allergens earlier in life.
Prevention/Solution
While there is no proven way to prevent the development of allergies, many physicians advise limiting exposure to known allergens such as dust mites. Dust mite exposure can be limited by washing linens in hot water once weekly and by using dust mite protective covers on mattresses and pillows. Additionally, minimizing exposure to cigarette smoke is critical for patients at risk of contracting allergies. If allergies have already developed, reducing exposure to the allergen helps to reduce the symptoms of allergic disease.
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