Developing new allergies later in life.
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It is entirely possible to develop an allergy to a food or environmental trigger in adulthood that you previously tolerated. This can be triggered by major environmental changes, viral infections, or shifts in the microbiome.
| Common Adult-Onset | Notes |
|---|---|
| Shellfish | The most common adult-onset food allergy |
| Tree Nuts | Can develop at any time in adulthood |
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WhatAreAllergies Editorial Team,
Health Editors & Medical Writers
Allergy, Immunology & Clinical Health Content
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Clinical Allergy & Immunology Content
Content is written by our editorial team following current clinical guidelines from ACAAI, AAAAI, and WAO. Educational only — always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical advice. View editorial policy →
Sampson HA, et al. "Second symposium on the definition and management of anaphylaxis: Summary report" — Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
View sourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) "Allergy Facts and Figures" — ACAAI Clinical Resources.
View sourceWorld Allergy Organization (WAO) "White Book on Allergy — 2025 Update" — World Allergy Organization.
View sourceNational Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) "Clinical Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Food Allergy" — National Institutes of Health.
View sourceMuraro A, et al. "EAACI food allergy and anaphylaxis guidelines: Diagnosis and management of food allergy" — Allergy — European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
This content reflects clinical guidelines current as of the last review date shown above. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.