What do you do with the results of the allergy test? | Allergy test

What do you do with the results of the allergy test?

Depending on the type of allergy test, different results may be obtained, which may have varying degrees of relevance and impact on the patient. If the result of an allergy test is inconclusive, it should be repeated if necessary after weighing up the risks and benefits. It should always be kept in mind that the diagnosis of an allergy means a restriction for the daily life of the patient.

If an allergy test confirms the diagnosis of an allergy, this is discussed in detail with the person concerned. It is important that the person concerned understands that further exposure (i.e. exposure) to the allergen (i.e. allergenic substance) can lead to a severe, possibly life-threatening allergic reaction of the body.

In addition, an allergy passport is created in which the allergy is noted. This allergy passport should always be worn by the person concerned. It is particularly important that an allergy to medication is known quickly in an emergency. In addition, various therapy options are discussed with the affected person depending on the allergy.

Blood values

When carrying out a blood test to determine an allergy, the detection of specific antibodies is of primary importance. This is usually the so-called “IgE value”. These are antibodies, i.e.

substances that are produced by the body to fight the supposedly “bad” allergen, i.e. the substance that causes the allergy. Depending on the severity of the allergy, the IgE value also varies. In addition, so-called inflammation parameters are determined in the blood. An allergy is an inflammatory reaction of the body, which is associated with the increase of certain values, such as CRP (C-Reactive Protein). However, these values are not proof of an allergy.

Is there also an allergy test for at home?

If an allergy is suspected, an allergy test can be carried out, for example on the Internet, before visiting a doctor at home. This test answers specific questions that can strengthen the suspicion of an allergy and the substance that causes the allergy. However, this type of allergy test cannot provide a reliable diagnosis.

Therefore, a doctor should be consulted for further clarification if symptoms occur that suggest the suspicion of an allergy. It may of course be useful to inform the doctor of the results of the allergy test previously carried out at home. This topic could also be of interest to you: Allergy emergency kit – you should always have it with you

Duration of an allergy test

An allergy test can take different lengths of time depending on the way it is carried out. If a blood test for certain antibodies or other substances in the blood is performed, it usually takes only 5-10 minutes. The results are usually sent by the responsible evaluating laboratory within 1-2 weeks.

A prick test takes about half an hour. First of all, after the application of the allergens, i.e. allergy-causing substances, it is necessary to wait about 15-20 minutes for the body to react. Then the allergy test is evaluated.