Epidemiology of respiratory allergic disorders in a geriatric age group

One hundred forty-eight patients with a respiratory allergic disorder between the ages of 60 and 84 were studied for one year. Emotional crises played an important role in the triggering of their symptoms. Heredity probably was as prevalent in this age group as in younger individuals. In most of the patients the first symptoms of their illness appeared in the years between 21 and 50. House dust was the most common allergenic factor in the causation of symptoms. This was favorable response and reduced the amount of supplemental medication required for symptom relief.