Four Things You Didn’t Know About Allergies

Updated: 2025-01-28

Read time: 8 minutes

For more than 50 million Americans each year, allergies are a nuisance. There isn’t anyone who enjoys the many symptoms they bring: sneezing, congestion, scratchy throat, and itchy, watery eyes are some of the most common reactions. Other people, however, may experience hives, rashes, and more.

So what causes allergies? Allergies happen when our immune systems identify a particular allergen as harmful. To protect us, it produces antibodies to fight it. This reaction is what ultimately causes our allergy triggers and the resulting symptoms previously mentioned.

While millions of Americans say they have learned to cope with their allergies, many more people don’t know much about allergies — and the more annoying symptoms they bring.

Four Things You Might Not Know About Allergies

Pet dander floats.

It’s not just the fur that pet owners need to worry about; it’s the tiny particles of skin flakes known as pet dander that can trigger allergic reactions. Pet dander, particularly from cats and dogs, is one of the most common indoor allergens. These microscopic particles can remain suspended in the air for hours, clinging to clothing, furniture, and even carpets. When inhaled, dander can cause symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and wheezing. What’s even more frustrating is that dander can be difficult to completely remove, as it is nearly invisible and can be carried around on people’s clothing or even through air currents. For individuals with pet allergies, this means that simply walking into a room that has contained pets can trigger a reaction.

More people have allergies than you think.

Allergies are not just a seasonal inconvenience for a small group of people—they affect over half of the U.S. population to some degree. In fact, National Institutes of Health (NIH), reports that more than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year. This statistic highlights how prevalent allergies are, yet many individuals may not even realize they have them. Allergies are often underreported, particularly when they cause mild symptoms or are attributed to other conditions like a common cold. The impact of allergies extends beyond just seasonal discomfort; they can contribute to chronic conditions like asthma and sinusitis, further complicating diagnosis and treatment. As awareness of allergies increases, more people are seeking help to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

You can develop allergies as an adult.

Many people assume that allergies are something you’re born with, but this is not always the case. In fact, it’s entirely possible to develop allergies later in life. The immune system may become sensitized to certain allergens after prolonged exposure or after a sudden, intense allergic reaction. For example, adults may develop food allergies that they didn’t have as children, or they may start experiencing seasonal allergies after moving to a new region with different pollen types. According to Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), about 15 percent of food allergies develop after the age of 18. As the immune system’s response becomes heightened, previously tolerated substances may become triggers. This underscores the importance of monitoring your health and seeking medical advice if new, unexplained symptoms appear.

Allergies and asthma are double trouble.

For individuals who suffer from both allergies and asthma symptoms, managing their symptoms can be particularly challenging. Allergens like pollen, pet dander, and dust mites can not only trigger allergic reactions but also exacerbate asthma symptoms. This combination is known as allergic asthma or allergy-induced asthma. When an allergic reaction occurs, it can lead to inflammation in the airways, making it more difficult to breathe. This inflammation, paired with the narrowing of the airways from asthma, can result in severe wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. The overlap of these two conditions can make it harder to pinpoint what’s causing symptoms, and it requires a comprehensive treatment approach. Effective management may involve both allergy medications and asthma treatments, in addition to environmental controls, such as using air purifiers and reducing allergen exposure.

How Air Purifiers Can Help

While allergies may never fully disappear, using an air purifier can significantly reduce the symptoms by improving the air quality in your home. Air purifiers are equipped with multiple filters that work together to remove allergens and other harmful particles from the air, offering relief for allergy sufferers. One of the most effective features of these devices is their use of HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter, which can capture up to 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. These microscopic particles include dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and even bacteria or viruses, all of which are common indoor allergens.

In addition to filtering particles, many modern air purifiers utilize technologies like UV-C light or ionization to further eliminate harmful microorganisms. UV-C light targets bacteria, viruses, and mold spores, disrupting their DNA and rendering them inactive, while ionizers release charged particles that attract and bind to allergens, making them easier to capture in the filters. By using a combination of these filtration methods, air purifiers provide a comprehensive solution for reducing allergens in your home.

Running an air purifier continuously, particularly in high-traffic areas or bedrooms where you spend a lot of time, can help keep allergens at bay. It’s essential to choose the right air purifier for the size of your space and to regularly change the filters to maintain its effectiveness. By removing up to 99 percent of airborne particles, air purifiers not only reduce the presence of allergens like pet dander and mold spores but also help to lower the concentration of pollutants that can aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma. As a result, air purifiers contribute to a healthier, more comfortable environment, allowing allergy sufferers to breathe easier and experience fewer symptoms.

The Bottom Line

While you or your loved one’s allergies may never go away, no one should have to suffer. Using an air purifier as a remedy is a wise choice because it will help you rest better and breathe clean air.

FAQ’s

Can allergies develop suddenly, even if I’ve never had them before?

Yes, it is possible to develop allergies suddenly, even in adulthood. While some people are born with allergies, others may develop them after repeated exposure to specific allergens. For example, someone who has lived with pets for years may suddenly start developing a sensitivity to pet dander. Similarly, food allergies can develop later in life, with approximately 15% of food allergies occurring after age 18.

What are some common allergens I might be exposed to in my home?

Common indoor allergens include pet dander, dust mites, mold spores, and pollen. These allergens can linger in the air, on furniture, and other surfaces, triggering allergic reactions when inhaled or touched. Keeping your home clean, using air purifiers, and minimizing exposure to pets or mold can help reduce indoor allergens.

Can allergic asthma be triggered by something other than pollen or dust?

Yes, allergic asthma can be triggered by a variety of allergens, not just pollen or dust. Common triggers include pet dander, mold, smoke, strong odors, and even certain foods. When someone with allergic asthma is exposed to these allergens, their immune system reacts, causing inflammation in the airways and making it harder to breathe. Managing both allergies and asthma together often requires controlling environmental triggers and using appropriate medications.

How can I tell if my symptoms are caused by allergies or something else?

Many symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes, can be confused with those of a cold or sinus infection. The key difference is that allergy symptoms usually occur when exposed to specific triggers (like pollen or pet dander) and can last for weeks or months, while cold symptoms typically resolve within a few days. If you notice that your symptoms persist or worsen when exposed to certain environments or substances, it might be a sign of allergies. A healthcare professional can provide a diagnosis through allergy testing.

Are air purifiers effective against pet dander?

Yes, air purifiers with HEPA filters are highly effective at removing pet dander from the air. Pet dander is made up of tiny particles that can linger in the air and on surfaces, making it a common trigger for allergic reactions. A high-quality air purifier can capture these particles and reduce their presence in your home, providing relief from symptoms like sneezing and itchy eyes. If you have pets, it’s a good idea to use an air purifier in areas where your pets spend the most time.