Question: I’ve heard kids sometimes outgrow asthma or even allergies. But can asthma and allergies develop in adults who haven’t had them? This year’s allergy season hit me pretty hard, but I’ve never had hay fever before.

Dr. Hibberd's answer:

The answer is yes and yes. Asthma and allergies can evolve at any age.

Many children do outgrow their allergies. They actually develop an immune tolerance, and their symptoms may clear in early adulthood. Some, however, do develop in adulthood and progress, so you should not rely upon it clearing by itself.

You should seek professional guidance when treating allergies and asthma. Some asthma-relieving treatments actually may be risky or even life-threatening.