5 Surprising Causes of Allergies You Didn’t Know About

Silver Spring MD allergist can offer helpful advice to those who suffer from allergies. But, did you know that there are several things that can cause allergies that you may not be aware of? Here are five surprising causes of allergies that you may not know about.

1. Stress

Stress is a leading cause of many health problems, including allergies. Studies have shown that stress can weaken the immune system, making it more susceptible to allergens. This means that if you are under stress, you may be more likely to experience allergy symptoms.

2. Lack of Sleep

Just like stress, lack of sleep can also weaken the immune system. When you don’t get enough sleep, your body produces more histamine, which is the chemical that causes allergy symptoms. This means that if you don’t get enough sleep, you may be more likely to experience allergy symptoms.

3. Climate Change

Climate change is having a significant impact on our environment, and it’s also affecting our health. As temperatures rise, plants are producing more pollen, which can trigger allergies. Additionally, climate change is causing more extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and floods, which can also trigger allergies by spreading mold and other allergens.

4. Antibiotics

Antibiotics are meant to help fight off infections, but they can also be harmful to the immune system. Antibiotics kill both good and bad bacteria in the gut, which can disrupt the balance of the immune system. This disruption can lead to an overactive immune response, which can cause allergy symptoms.

5. Food Additives

Food additives are commonly found in processed foods, and they can cause allergies in some people. Additives such as food dyes, preservatives, and artificial flavors can trigger allergy symptoms. If you suspect that you may be allergic to a specific additive, you should try eliminating it from your diet to see if your symptoms improve.

Now that you are aware of these five surprising causes of allergies, you can take steps to avoid them. Whether it’s reducing stress, getting enough sleep, or avoiding certain foods and medications, there are many things you can do to minimize allergy symptoms. If you have questions or concerns about your allergies, be sure to consult with a trusted allergist who can help you find the right treatment plan.