Allergy

Allergy Blood Test:

Allergy blood test are diagnostic test that measure the presence of specific IgE antibodies in the blood, indicating allergic sensitivities to certain substances. They are important tools for identifying allergens and managing allergic reactions effectively.

Written by Aisling Moran BSc (Hons)

4th Aug 2022 • 4 min read

What Covered

Why Allergy Blood Test Are Important:

  1. Allergy blood test provide accurate and reliable results, helping pinpoint specific allergens that trigger allergic reactions.

  2. Allergen blood test are relatively non-invasive and can be performed regardless of age, skin condition, or medication use, making them suitable for a wide range of individuals.

  3. Allergy blood test offer a comprehensive assessment of allergic sensitivities, covering a wide range of allergens, including pollen, pet dander, dust mites, foods, berries and more.

Types of Allergy Blood Test:

Specific IgE Test:

  • This test measures levels of specific IgE antibodies to individual allergens, providing precise information about allergic sensitivities.

Total IgE Test:

  • This test measures total IgE levels in the blood, indicating overall allergic sensitivity but not identifying specific allergens.

What do allergy blood test results mean?

While everyone possesses IgE in their blood, heightened levels might suggest an allergy. Since various labs utilize different brands of allergy blood test, the scoring system for results may differ accordingly. Notably, these tests don’t determine the severity of an allergy. Hence, if you’re diagnosed with an allergy, it’s crucial to consult your doctor regarding the potential risk of anaphylaxis.

Common Symptoms of Allergies:

  1. Sneezing

  2. runny or stuffy nose

  3. coughing

  4. wheezing, and shortness of breath

  5. Itching

  6. hives (raised, itchy welts)

  7. Eczema (itchy, inflamed skin), and swelling

  8. Abdominal pain

  9. Diarrhea, or difficulty swallowing

  10. Swelling of the throat

  11. Difficulty breathing

  12. Rapid pulse

  13. loss of consciousness (emergency medical attention required)

Conclusion:

Allergy testing is a valuable tool for identifying allergens, customizing treatment plans, and achieving relief from allergic symptoms. By understanding the importance of allergy testing and knowing when to consider it, individuals can take proactive steps toward managing their allergies and enjoying a better quality of life.

  1. American College of Allergy Asthma & Immunology [Internet]. American College of Allergy Asthma & Immunology;  Anaphylaxis | Causes, Symptoms & Treatment | ACAAI Public Website

  2. Mayo Clinic [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; c1998–2022. Diseases and Conditions: Food Allergy  Food allergy - Symptoms and causes

  3. American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology [Internet]. Milwaukee (WI): American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology; https://www.aaaai.org/Tools-for-the-Public/Allergy,-Asthma-Immunology-Glossary/Allergy-Defined

  4. Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America [Internet]. Landover (MD): Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America  Allergies and Allergic Reactions | AAFA.org | AAFA | Allergies

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