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Allergy tests: how to identify an allergen and properly prepare for the test
Why is it important to identify an allergen in time?
Allergies can manifest themselves in the form of a periodic runny nose, cough, itching or skin rashes. Often people cannot determine what exactly causes these symptoms. In such cases, allergy tests help - special diagnostic tests that reveal the sensitivity of the immune system to certain substances. This allows you to avoid contact with the allergen and choose the right treatment.
What are allergy tests?
Allergy testing is a research method that allows you to detect hypersensitivity to household, food, pollen or drug allergens. They can be skin or laboratory. The most common are skin tests, which are carried out in the form of prick tests or scarifications.
Types of allergy tests
| Sample type | The essence of the method | Indication |
|---|---|---|
| Prick tests | Applying allergen drops and puncturing the skin | Detection of reactions to household, food and pollen allergens |
| Scarification | Skin scratches with allergen | Diagnosis of allergies in children |
| Intradermal | Introduction of allergen under the skin | Suspected drug allergy |
| Application | Allergen patch on the back | Contact dermatitis |
| Laboratory | Blood test for specific IgE | Alternative when skin tests are not possible |
When are allergy tests needed?
If you notice seasonal or persistent symptoms: itchy eyes, skin, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, tearing, or problems after eating certain foods, allergy tests will help identify what exactly is causing these reactions.
For example, a teenager may experience sneezing and an itchy nose every summer, while an adult man may develop a rash after eating strawberries. Allergy testing can help confirm the connection to a specific allergen.
Preparing for allergy tests
To obtain a reliable result, it is important:
- do not take antihistamines 5–7 days before testing (after consulting a doctor)
- avoid physical activity, stress, and alcohol during the day
- do not use creams or ointments on the skin of the forearm
- do not take tests during infections, colds, or exacerbation of chronic diseases
Contraindication
Allergy tests are not performed:
- during pregnancy
- during exacerbation of chronic diseases
- for acute infections
- patients with severe bronchial asthma
- children under 5 years old (exceptions apply)
Practical examples
The child's mother noticed that after playing outside, her son developed rashes and cough. Allergy tests confirmed sensitivity to grass pollen. Accordingly, a plan was developed to avoid the allergen during the flowering season.
Another case is a patient with facial swelling after taking an analgesic. Intradermal tests revealed sensitivity to paracetamol, which allowed the drug to be replaced and serious complications to be avoided in the future.
Where to get allergy tests
The procedure is performed in allergy clinics or laboratories that are licensed to conduct skin tests. In the Medilab Plus laboratory, you can undergo both prick testing and blood test for specific immunoglobulins to a wide range of allergens.
Allergy tests help find the source of the problem, not just treat its symptoms. Thanks to them, you can reduce the burden on the immune system, avoid provoking factors and improve the quality of life. If you have allergy symptoms, do not postpone the examination - it is an investment in a safe and controlled future.
