Allergy Test Overview

An allergy test is a diagnostic tool that helps identify substances (allergens) that trigger abnormal immune reactions in the body. Allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly treats harmless substances such as pollen, food proteins, or dust mites as threats. This can lead to symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, skin rashes, itching, wheezing, or digestive issues.

There are many types of allergies, including food allergies, respiratory allergies, skin allergies, drug allergies, and insect sting allergies. Since symptoms can overlap with other conditions, an accurate test is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Why Is the Test Prescribed?

Doctors may recommend an allergy test in the following cases:

• Persistent respiratory issues such as sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, or asthma symptoms.
• Chronic skin problem including eczema, hives, or rashes.
• During pregnancy, as timely treatment can significantly reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission.
• Food-related reactionslike swelling, itching, nausea, or diarrhea after eating specific foods.
• Drug allergieswhen patients experience rashes or breathing difficulties after medications.
• Unexplained symptoms such as recurrent headaches, fatigue, or digestive disturbances linked to possible allergens.

By identifying triggers, allergy testing allows patients to avoid specific allergens, take preventive measures, and receive targeted treatment such as immunotherapy or antihistamines.

Types of Allergy Tests

Several types of allergy tests are available. The choice depends on the suspected allergy and the patient’s symptoms:

• Skin Prick Test (SPT) – Small amounts of suspected allergens are introduced into the skin, and reactions are observed.
• Intradermal Test – A small amount of allergen is injected under the skin for more sensitive testing.
• Blood Test (Specific IgE Test) –Measures the level of allergen-specific antibodies in the blood, useful when skin testing is not possible.
• Patch Test –Identifies contact allergies by applying patches containing allergens to the skin for 48–72 hours.

Procedure and Prerequisites

Allergy testing is safe, simple, and usually performed under medical supervision:

• Skin testsinvolve pricking or applying allergens on the skin and monitoring for redness or swelling.
• Blood tests require a standard blood sample from a vein in the arm.
• Preparation:Patients may need to stop antihistamines before testing, as these can interfere with results.

Most procedures take less than an hour, and results are usually available quickly.