Here’s some food for thought.
Contrary to popular belief, allergies don't exclusively afflict the young.
In fact, they can strike at any age, including in our senior population— a demographic that is actually more prone to developing allergies.
Join me as we navigate through the complexities of food allergies in ageing adults, dig deeper into why seniors may be more at risk to developing allergies, and most importantly, explore strategies to effectively manage these allergens—possibly even saving lives in the event of an emergency allergy attack.
Why Do Seniors Develop Allergies as They Age?
As individuals age, their immune systems undergo the following various changes, which can contribute to the development of food allergies:
Decline in the Immune Function—Formally Known as Immunosenescence
When people grow older, over time their immune systems become less efficient at recognising and responding to foreign substances, including potential allergens.
This decline in immune function can lead to an increased susceptibility to allergic reactions, as the body may no longer effectively distinguish between harmless substances and allergens.
Changes in the Gut Microbiota
Changes in the gut microbiota, which play a crucial role in immune regulation, may occur with age. Alterations in the composition and diversity of gut bacteria can also impact immune function, increasing the likelihood of developing food allergies.
Alterations in the Digestive System
Another reason behind seniors’ susceptibility to developing a food allergy is the changes that occur in their digestive system as they age, such as decreased stomach acid production and changes in intestinal permeability.
These changes can affect the breakdown and absorption of food components, potentially leading to an increased exposure to allergens and an elevated risk of developing food allergies.
Accumulation of Exposure to Allergens Throughout Their Lives
Finally, older adults may have accumulated exposure to various allergens over their lifetime, which could contribute to the development of new allergies or exacerbate existing ones.
All in all, the complex interplay of age-related changes in immune function, gut microbiota, and digestive processes are all reasons that can predispose seniors to the development of food allergies as they age.
The 10 Most Common Food Allergies in Seniors
Among seniors, the top ten most common food allergies in seniors are the following:
- Cow’s milk
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Eggs
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Soy
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts
- Wheat
How to Find Out if You Have Any Undiagnosed Allergies
The prevalence of food allergies in the elderly is estimated to be at 5 to 10 percent; However, this percentage is most likely higher, as food allergies are often underestimated and underdiagnosed, therefore undertreated.
In fact, one study found that 24.8 percent of geriatric nursing home patients, with a mean age of 77 years old, tested positive on skin tests for food allergens.
Furthermore, it is speculated that about 25 to 30 percent of adults self-diagnose themselves with allergies.
If you suspect that you may have a food allergy or are curious and just want to get officially tested for allergens, there are a few different types of tests that can be performed by practitioners:
Skin Prick Test (SPT)
In this test, a small amount of the suspected allergen is pricked into the skin, usually on the forearm or back.
If a raised bump (wheal) and redness (flare) develop within about 15 to 20 minutes, it may indicate an allergic reaction.
Blood Tests
Blood tests measure the immune system's response to specific allergens by detecting the presence of allergy-causing antibodies such as IgE antibodies.
The most common blood test for food allergies is the specific IgE test, also known as a radioallergosorbent test (RAST) or ImmunoCAP test.
Elimination Diet
This method of testing involves removing suspected food allergens from the diet for a pre-determined period of time (usually 2-6 weeks) and then reintroducing them one at a time while monitoring for symptoms.
This method helps identify which specific foods trigger allergic reactions.
Oral Food Challenge (OFC)
OFC is considered the most accurate way to diagnose a food allergy.
It involves ingesting small amounts of the suspected allergen under medical supervision to test if it triggers a reaction.
Patch Testing
Patch testing involves applying small amounts of allergens to patches placed on the skin for 48 hours.
This test is more commonly used to diagnose contact dermatitis but can also be used to identify delayed allergic reactions to food.
Component-Resolved Diagnostics (CRD)
CRD is a type of blood test that can identify specific proteins in allergenic foods, providing more detailed information about the allergic reaction and potentially cross-reactive allergens.
8 Useful Tips for Managing Your Food Allergies
1. Become an Expert on All of Your Allergies
Becoming an expert on all of your allergies is a journey that involves dedication, education, and proactive management.
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to protecting yourself from your allergens, and you should be the one who knows your body and specific allergies the best.
Start by thoroughly researching each allergen you're sensitive to, understanding their sources, symptoms, and potential cross-reactions.
Consult with expert healthcare professionals, such as allergists or immunologists, to undergo comprehensive allergy testing and receive personalised advice.
Additionally, it is important to stay informed by regularly updating your knowledge about allergies through reputable sources, such as medical journals and trusted websites.
You can even consider joining allergy-specific organisations or support groups to connect with others facing similar challenges and gain insights from their experiences.
2. Inform and Educate Your Caregivers or Whoever Handles Your Food About Your Allergies
Educating your caregivers or anyone who handles your food about your allergies as a senior is absolutely crucial for maintaining your health and safety.
Communicating your allergies clearly and effectively ensures that those responsible for preparing or serving your meals are able to grasp a better understanding of your allergy and all that it entails, as well as the importance of avoiding these specific allergens.
Whether it's a family member, caregiver, or staff at a care facility, providing detailed information about your allergies empowers them to make informed decisions and take necessary precautions to prevent accidental exposure.
This proactive approach not only reduces the risk of allergic reactions but also fosters a supportive environment where your dietary needs are respected and prioritised, ultimately promoting your overall health, well-being, and quality of life as a senior.
3. Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions
Oftentimes, when people require special care or attention in any area of their lives, they can feel like their needs can be a burden or an inconvenience to others.
This may cause them to shy away from asking their food handlers questions to confirm that what they are consuming is safe, which can lead to misunderstandings or costly mistakes that can put their health at risk.
Always remember that your well-being and needs are not an inconvenience to others.
There are no silly questions when it comes to your health and safety. You know your own body better than anyone else, so don’t be afraid to advocate for it.
Never assume that someone has an understanding of your allergy. In many cases, even those who may think they have a full understanding of an allergy don’t, unless they themselves also live with the same allergy.
Inquire about ingredients in food, potential allergens in products, or the presence of allergens in your environment.
Whether you're speaking with your healthcare provider, dining at a restaurant, or attending a social gathering, seeking clarification is crucial for your well-being, and asking questions fosters awareness among those around you, promoting a supportive and inclusive environment for all.
4. Always Read Food Labels
While it may seem annoying or tedious having to scan every word of the long list of ingredients on your food labels, as a senior with allergies, reading food labels is a non-negotiable habit that is essential for safeguarding your health and well-being.
Food labels serve as vital tools, providing detailed information about ingredients, potential allergens, and manufacturing processes that could pose a risk.
By diligently scrutinising labels before purchasing or consuming food products, you can identify allergens and avoid products that may trigger adverse reactions.
This proactive approach empowers you to make informed decisions, reduces the likelihood of accidental exposure to allergens, and enables you to maintain greater control over your dietary choices, contributing to your overall safety and peace of mind.
5. Practise Caution with Cross-Contamination
Cross-contamination is something that can often be left on the back burner (pun intended) when it comes to handling allergies.
This is why practising caution with cross-contamination is paramount for individuals with allergies, ensuring that even trace amounts of allergens do not inadvertently enter their food.
For example, if you cook your own food, start by maintaining a clean and organised kitchen, with designated cooking utensils, cutting boards, and countertops for allergen-free preparation.
Take extra care when using shared cooking appliances or dining surfaces, thoroughly cleaning them before and after use to minimise the risk of allergen transfer.
When dining out or sharing communal spaces, communicate your allergies clearly to those handling food, emphasising the importance of avoiding cross-contact.
Furthermore, it is important to familiarise yourself with common sources of cross-contamination, such as shared condiments or cooking oils, and take proactive measures to avoid them.
By remaining vigilant and proactive, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidental exposure to allergens, ensuring a safe and enjoyable dining experience while prioritising your health and well-being.
6. Be Aware of Your Allergic Reaction Symptoms
Being aware of allergic reaction symptoms to food is crucial for maintaining health and safety.
An effective way of doing this is to keep an allergen journal to track your reactions and identify patterns.
Pay close attention to any previous reactions you've had to specific foods, being mindful of physical signs of an allergic reaction, including itching, hives, swelling, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, difficulty breathing, or a drop in blood pressure.
Remember that these symptoms can range from mild to severe and can occur within minutes to hours after consuming the allergen, so keep this in mind when monitoring your symptoms.
By understanding your body’s signals of an allergic reaction, in the case of an emergency, you can intervene promptly and prevent potentially severe, life-threatening reactions.
7. Carry Your Allergy Medications on You at All Times
Listen to your doctor. Chances are that if they are prescribing you with a medication, it’s because you need it.
Keep your allergy medication on you at all times to mitigate the risk of accidental exposure and potential allergic reactions.
Whether it's an EpiPen containing epinephrine for severe reactions or antihistamines for milder symptoms, having these medications readily available is crucial for swift intervention.
Carrying food allergy medication ensures preparedness in various situations, such as dining out, attending social gatherings, or travelling, where allergen exposure might occur unexpectedly.
Consider utilising a designated pouch or carrying case specifically for allergy medication, as this practice can aid in keeping it easily accessible and protected from damage or deterioration.
It is also important to remember to check the expiration dates and replenish supplies when necessary to guarantee the medication's effectiveness when needed most.
By practising the habit of carrying food allergy medication at all times, you can ensure that in the event of an allergic reaction, your line of defence is locked and loaded—ready to sweep in and save the day.
8. Have a Plan of Action in Place in Case of Emergency Situations
No matter how careful we may be, sometimes mistakes happen.
That is why it is important to have a plan of action already set in place in the event of an unexpected allergic reaction.
Setting a plan in place for allergic reactions involves several key steps to ensure readiness and effective response.
First and foremost, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an allergist, to assess your specific allergies and their severity. Together, the two of you can develop a personalised allergy action plan tailored to your needs.
This plan should include detailed information on identifying allergic symptoms, triggers, and appropriate emergency procedures.
It is also important that everyone involved, including family members, caregivers, and colleagues, understands their roles and responsibilities in case of an allergic reaction.
Keep emergency contact information readily accessible, including your allergist's number, local emergency services, and any relevant medical history.
Additionally, as mentioned before, always carry necessary medications, such as epinephrine auto-injectors or antihistamines, and ensure they are not expired.
Even after your plan is complete, it is also important to regularly review and update your allergy action plan as needed, especially if there are changes in your allergies or treatment regimen.
Remember that by proactively establishing and maintaining an allergy action plan, you empower yourself and those around you to respond effectively and minimise the risks associated with allergic reactions.
