Allergy tests: what they are and results
About 10 million people suffer from allergies in Spain and the rate increases every year. Sometimes allergy symptoms are confusing and allergy can be caused by different allergens. There are several types of allergy tests we tell you what each of them consists of.
What do the allergy tests provide?
If you suspect someone has an allergy, it is important to see a doctor. The doctor once analyzed the symptoms if you consider it necessary will ask the allergy test . Knowing what we are allergic to is fundamental to improving the symptoms we suffer ..
For example a person may have symptoms of allergic rhinitis, runny nose, sneezing and this condition may be caused by different substances . From mold, dust, a pet or food allergy.
Types of allergy tests
There are several types of tests to analyze substances to which a person may be allergic . They are divided into three groups.
1- Skin tests
2- Elimination tests
3- Blood tests (like the RAST test)
Skin Tests
- Lightly pricking the skin on the area for the allergen substance to enter the surface of the skin. Meanwhile the doctor observes the reaction that may occur in the patient. For example if swelling or redness arises.
- The results of this type of tests appear in a range between 15 to 20 minutes . In addition you can test several allergens at the same time.
- The skin tests are useful for the diagnosis of various types of allergies . Contact dermatitis, allergies to certain foods, allergy to penicillin, allergy to mold, pollen, pets that can cause rhinitis or asthma. Allergy to poisons.
Elimination Test
It is about practicing an elimination diet to verify if there is an allergy to food. An elimination diet is one in which certain foods that are suspected of causing symptoms are eliminated for several weeks. Later they are introduced gradually. One food at a time while observing the person for any signs of an allergic reaction.
Blood Test
These tests are used to determine the amount of antibodies against immunoglobulin E for a specific allergen in blood. These tests are applied when the skin tests are not providing enough data. The best known is the RAST . This analytical measures the levels of allergy antibody or IgE.
