Can You Develop New Allergies as an Adult?
Medically reviewed by Linda Girgis | MD, Girgis Family Medicine on August 20th, 2026.
Yes, adults can develop new allergies at any point in their lives. While many allergies begin in childhood, studies show that up to 26% of food allergies in adults are acquired after age 18. Adult-onset allergies can develop to foods, environmental allergens like pollen or dust mites, medications, and even substances you've been exposed to for years without problems. Common triggers include shellfish, tree nuts, and seasonal pollens. The immune system can change over time due to factors like hormonal shifts, stress, infections, or geographic relocations that expose you to new allergens. If you suspect new allergies, keeping a symptom diary and consulting an allergist for proper testing can help identify triggers and develop an effective management plan.
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