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Before diving into the topic of allergy tests, let’s first understand what a ‘food allergy’ is. Often, people confuse this term with ‘food intolerance’, but they are not the same. Food allergy is a set of rash-like symptoms that appears on the skin when the immune system reacts to certain foods. Here comes the most awaited question: “How do I know which foods I am allergic to?” To get the answer, continue reading this blog till the end!
Who is likely to develop food allergies?
Practically, anyone! However, the risk is higher for those who have
- Family history –Individuals having relatives with asthma or other allergies like rhinitis are at a high risk of developing food allergies in the future.
- Asthma – Asthmatic individuals have a higher chance of developing severe food allergies.
- Dermal issues – Food allergies can co-exist with skin diseases, like eczema, atopic dermatitis, etc.
What complications may arise due to food allergy?
Food allergies can result in mild to severe consequences when left untreated for a prolonged time. Typical dangers include:
- Anaphylaxis – It is a condition in which the airways constrict. Consequently, it can reduce blood pressure so much that a person dies.
- Multiple allergies – A single food allergy can potentially trigger the development of other allergies over time, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance.
Importance of an allergy test
Food allergies have become common in today’s generation. Thus, making informed choices regarding what to eat and what not to eat is crucial. A simple food allergy test can help understand and diagnose potential allergens that can trigger the body in the future. It also assists doctors in preparing customised treatment plans and enables food manufacturing companies to avoid using ingredients that can cause allergies.
Read more: How Professional Carpet Cleaning Helps Control Pet Allergies
What methods do doctors use in food allergy testing?
Skin prick test
It is one of the safest procedures for detecting food allergies. A small quantity of suspected allergen is injected into the skin through a prick or scratch. If any redness or swelling is seen over the pricked site within a short period, it indicates that the individual is allergic. Such a process is usually painless and, therefore, best suited for children.
Blood antibody test
The levels of IgE antibodies mainly determine allergic reactions in a person’s blood. Hence, if there is a subsequent spike in its level, it is indicative of a person being potentially allergic towards certain food items. Moreover, this test is helpful for those who are not comfortable with a skin prick test. In the process, the doctor collects a small blood sample and sends it to a testing laboratory.
Oral food challenge
Despite being dangerous, it is the most precise method for testing food allergies. In this process, an individual eats the suspected food and waits to see if any bodily changes occur. However, doctors remain pre-prepared so that they can take proper steps if any emergency condition arises.
Read more: Understanding Food Allergies: Causes, Symptoms, and Management
How to prepare for an allergy test?
- It’s crucial to consult with your private doctor for a primary health test. Their professional guidance will provide you with the reassurance and support you need. Try to make a list of medications that you currently take.
- For small children, cooperate and comfort them as much as possible. Also, explain the steps and consequences beforehand so they do not fear.
- Ask the healthcare provider for specific medical guidelines, such as fasting, discontinuing medicines, etc.
What happens after the results come out?
The test results typically come back as positive, negative, or undetermined. After the results are delivered, the doctor analyses the outcome and discusses adjustments to ensure health safety.
What precautionary steps can one take?
Recent scientific studies reveal that introducing allergenic foods like groundnuts can help prevent other food allergies. However, such foods must be fed gradually at an early age. Discuss this with a specialised health professional before administering new foods to avoid serious consequences. Some common precautionary steps are:
- Going through the ingredient labels with utmost care
- Avoiding foods from unknown restaurants, especially if they do not accommodate allergies
- Informing caregivers or babysitters beforehand about food allergies
- Always carrying epinephrine auto-injectors and antihistamine tablets with oneself
- Avoiding seafood like shellfish, prawns, etc., so that they do not trigger an allergic reaction
Conclusion
Understanding food allergies is crucial, not only for children but also for adults. If you suspect that any of your family members has a food allergy, it’s essential not to delay. Symptoms can flare up at any time and become severe. If you are looking for a top allergist in London for allergy testing, consider contacting Medical Express. Besides providing timely reports, it provides preventive tips for maintaining well-being.
