Environmental Allergy Tests

Sneezing up a storm thanks to seasonal allergies? You may find relief through an environmental allergy test.

Around 81 million people in the United States are diagnosed with seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever. This condition is triggered by outdoor allergens like pollen. Due to its high prevalence, hay fever is considered one of the most common allergies in the country. To diagnose hay fever and other similar allergies, it is recommended to get an environmental allergy test and take the appropriate medications.

The Role of Environmental Allergy Tests

To prevent and treat your body’s immune overreactions against these allergens, you should be properly diagnosed first. With that, your doctor may order or conduct allergy testing, specifically an environmental allergy blood test.

Generally, an environmental allergy test helps diagnose if someone is allergic to surrounding items and substances.

Moreover, an environmental allergy blood test detects which allergen causes the overreaction in the immune system. These allergens can range from pollen, dust, animal dander, insects, weeds, grass, molds, etc., which can be found inside your homes, workplaces, or outdoors.

An environmental allergy blood test uses immunoglobulin E (IgE) to identify allergies.

IgE is an antibody produced in high amounts when the body detects allergens. Furthermore, IgE antibodies trigger the release of chemicals like histamines prompting respiratory, digestive, and skin reactions.

Total IgE Vs. Specific IgE

Screening for IgE can be performed through a Total IgE blood test or a Specific IgE blood test. A typical environmental panel includes both blood tests depending on the targeted allergen.

The total IgE blood test simply determines the number of antibodies in the blood. Therefore, it helps detect the allergy per se.

On the other hand, a specific IgE blood test measures the number of antibodies for a particular allergen. It is the type of environmental allergy test you need for diagnosing specific pollen allergies or insect bites.

Who Should Get Tested for Environmental Allergies?

Those with:

• Known or likely allergen triggers like pollen, pet dander
• Hay fever symptoms
• Location prone to certain allergens

People who show allergic reactions for known airborne triggers or irritants are recommended to get tested for environmental allergies.

For instance, if you’re developing hay fever symptoms, you may have to take an environmental allergy test for an accurate diagnosis.

Likewise, those prone to allergies and living in areas or states where specific allergens are common can benefit from environmental sensitivity testing.

When To Get An Environmental Allergy Blood Test?

If you regularly experience:

• Rashes
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Itching
• Swelling
• Nasal congestion (allergic rhinitis)
• Troubled breathing
• Tightness around the throat

Don’t delay if symptoms persist – see an allergist. Though rare, severe reactions can become life-threatening.

While most allergic reactions are mild, testing provides insight to avoid triggers and get proper treatment. This may include medication, immunotherapy, or simple environmental changes.

Consult your doctor when symptoms persist. While allergic reactions are mostly mild, once it gets severe, it can potentially lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening immune response requiring immediate medical attention.

Get Tested for Environmental Allergies Near You

Are you looking for an environmental allergy test? Look no further as we have got you covered.

No need for appointments or referrals! Personalabs offers convenient environmental allergy testing online including doctor review. Order a panel, visit a local lab for the blood draw, and get results delivered to your secure online account.

Take control of seasonal and environmental allergies. Get tested and relief today with Personalabs!

Check out our partner labs nearest your location and secure your blood test anytime, anywhere.