As spring arrives with blooming flowers and warmer weather, so too come the sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses that plague millions of people each year.

Spring allergies, often triggered by pollen from trees, grasses and other plants, are one of the most common seasonal health concerns. But where do allergies come from, and why do some people suffer more than others?

Allergies are hypersensitive immune responses to substances that are generally harmless to most people. These substances, known as allergens, can include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, certain foods, insect stings and even medications.

When a person with allergies encounters an allergen, their immune system overreacts by producing antibodies, which then lead to the release of chemicals like histamine. This release causes inflammation and the typical symptoms associated with allergic reactions — sneezing, congestion, skin rashes, or in severe cases, anaphylaxis.

Allergies can be both genetic and developed over time. Genetics plays a significant role in determining a person’s susceptibility to allergies. If one or both parents have allergies, their children are more likely to develop them as well. This hereditary predisposition is known as atopy.

However, not all allergies are present from birth. Many individuals develop allergies later in life due to repeated exposure to allergens or changes in their environment. For example, moving to a new region with different pollen patterns or working in an environment with high allergen exposure can trigger the development of new allergic sensitivities. Moreover, the immune system can change with age, making a person newly susceptible to allergens they previously tolerated.

Researchers have identified several environmental risk factors for developing allergies, including diet and early childhood nutrition, exposure to tobacco smoke, viral respiratory infections, increased antibiotic usage, and regional and seasonal allergen exposure.

Current research indicates that allergy prevalence differs globally. For instance, food allergies in children under 5 are more common in Western countries compared to other regions. This suggests that early environmental exposures significantly influence whether a person develops an allergy, even with a genetic predisposition.

Though allergies cannot be cured, they can be effectively managed. Preventive measures include limiting exposure to allergens, using air purifiers, washing bedding frequently, and keeping the windows closed on high-pollen days.

Over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays offer symptom relief, while allergy shots (immunotherapy) may provide long-term control for chronic sufferers.

Understanding that allergies are shaped by both genetic and environmental factors helps demystify their origins. Whether inherited or acquired, managing allergies begins with awareness and proactive care — especially during peak seasons like spring.

Proper diagnosis is also essential for effective allergy management. The diagnostic process typically begins with a thorough medical history and may involve several tests:

- Blood test: Measures the presence of IgE antibodies to specific allergens.

- Skin prick test: A small amount of allergen is introduced to the skin to observe a reaction

- Radioallergosorbent test (RAST): An older method to detect allergen-specific IgE in the blood

- ImmunoCAP: A modern and more accurate blood test used to identify allergy triggers

- Oral food challenge tests: Carefully supervised ingestion of potential allergens to monitor reactions