Do allergies run in families?

Have you ever wondered why, as the tree and grass pollen season approaches, some families stock up on allergy medication while others seem unaffected by the pollen onslaught? It turns out the answer could be in your genes. Yes, allergies do run in families, so if your parents sneeze and wheeze every time spring comes around, there's a good chance you'll do the same.

The genetic link

Research has shown that if one parent has allergies, there's a higher chance that their child will also have allergies. The risk increases even more if both parents have allergies. This genetic tendency to develop allergic conditions is known as atopy.

Allergies, including hay fever, eczema and asthma, are often grouped together because of their common genetic basis. However, inheriting an allergy doesn't necessarily mean you'll get the same allergies as your mum or dad. Instead, you may be more likely to develop allergies in general

How do allergies develop?

Allergies occur when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance - such as pollen, bee venom, pet dander or even certain foods - that doesn't cause a reaction in most people. Your immune system produces substances called antibodies.

When you have allergies, your immune system makes antibodies that identify a particular allergen as harmful, even though it isn't. When you come into contact with the allergen, your immune system's reaction can inflame your skin, sinuses, airways or digestive system - leading to the symptoms many of us are all too familiar with during the tree pollen and grass pollen seasons.

Managing and treating allergies

Allergy relief tips

• Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons to minimise indoor allergens.

• Using saline nasal sprays to clear the nasal passages.

• Consultation with an allergy company or specialist can offer personalised advice and treatment options, possibly including immunotherapy.

Allergy medication

From allergy pills to allergy nasal sprays, there's a range of allergy medications to help relieve symptoms. Prescription nasal sprays and allergy drops can also be part of an allergy treatment plan to help relieve the discomfort caused by allergies.

Immunotherapy

For some, immunotherapy (allergy injections, tablets or drops) can help reduce sensitivity to allergens, providing a long-term solution to managing allergies.

Prevention: is it possible?

While you can't change your genetics, understanding your family's allergy history can help you take early steps to manage symptoms or potentially reduce your exposure to known allergens. For families with a strong history of allergies, early intervention - such as introducing certain foods in infancy under medical supervision - may help in some cases.

Conclusion

So do allergies run in families? Absolutely. But a family history of allergies doesn't mean you're doomed to suffer. With advances in allergy medicines and treatments, and a few lifestyle changes, it's perfectly possible to manage allergies effectively. Whether it's over-the-counter allergy relief options or more personalised allergy treatments prescribed by specialists at Airyn, there are plenty of ways to make allergy season more bearable for you and your family.

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