What Causes Allergies?

Allergy season is an all-too-familiar annual occurrence, bringing misery to millions of people suffering from respiratory, skin and other food and environmental allergies. But what actually causes allergies? It’s a question researchers have been trying to answer for some time, and while there is no single answer, here we’ll look at some of the major factors.

Genetics and Family History

One of the major determining factors of allergic susceptibility is genetics. If someone has a parent, sibling or other close relative who has allergies, their chances of developing allergies is significantly higher. This indicates that inherited traits play an important role in determining who is more likely to suffer from allergies. Researchers believe that certain markers in the human genome are associated with higher risks of allergic reactions.

Atmospheric Pollution

Atmospheric pollution, particularly high levels of air pollutants such as dust, mold, and car exhaust, has long been suspected of exacerbating allergic reactions. Studies have found that people living in highly polluted urban areas are at higher risk of asthma and other allergies than those living in less polluted rural areas. While the exact cause for the increased risks in polluted areas is not known, it’s been suggested that polluted air can lead to increased inflammation in the lungs, which can trigger an allergic reaction.

Exposure to Allergens

One of the most well-studied causes of allergies is exposure to allergens, both indoors and outdoors. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, and food. Different people can have different sensitivities to even the same allergen, meaning that something that may be harmless to one person can trigger an allergic reaction in another. Additionally, repeated exposure to allergens over time can increase the chances of developing an allergy.

In summary, while there is no single cause of allergies, certain genetic and environmental factors can increase a person’s risk of developing an allergy. These include family history and genetics, atmospheric pollution, and repeated exposure to allergens. To reduce the risk of allergies, it’s important to minimize exposure to potential allergens where possible, such as keeping the home clean and free of dust and pet dander, and avoiding highly polluted urban areas.