Question 1

What's this test for?

Accepted Answer

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained symptoms like hives, itching, swelling, stomach pain, or breathing difficulties after eating certain foods. It helps identify specific food and tree nut allergies that may be causing your reactions, including hidden allergens you might not have suspected. Many people use this test when they want to pinpoint exactly which foods to avoid for their safety and well-being.

Question 2

What happens after I get my results?

Accepted Answer

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining which foods and tree nuts you're allergic to and what that means for your daily life. These notes include personalized recommendations on how to safely avoid trigger foods, read ingredient labels, and manage accidental exposures. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your allergy markers over time using our trends feature, which is especially helpful if you're monitoring changes or undergoing treatment.

Question 3

What's included in this test?

Accepted Answer

This panel measures IgE antibodies to common food allergens including milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, fish, and shellfish, as well as tree nuts such as almonds, cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts, pistachios, pecans, and Brazil nuts. This comprehensive panel tests your immune system's response to these foods and tree nuts to identify which ones trigger allergic reactions. It screens for antibodies that cause symptoms ranging from mild reactions to severe anaphylaxis. Together, these measurements provide a complete picture of your food sensitivities, helping you understand which ingredients to avoid and making meal planning safer and less stressful.

Question 4

How should I prepare for this test?

Accepted Answer

No special preparation is typically required for this allergy panel. You do not need to fast before the test, and you can continue eating normally. However, if you're taking antihistamines or allergy medications, check with your doctor about whether you should continue them, though most blood allergy tests are not affected by these medications.

Question 5

When will I get my results?

Accepted Answer

Most allergy panel results are available within 3-5 business days after your blood sample reaches the lab. You'll receive an email notification as soon as your results are ready to view in your secure online account. Complex panels testing multiple allergens may occasionally take slightly longer, but you'll have clear insights into your food allergies within a week.

Question 6

Who should consider getting this test?

Accepted Answer

This test is perfect for anyone experiencing unexplained allergic symptoms after eating, parents of children with suspected food allergies, or people who want to identify hidden triggers causing chronic issues like eczema or digestive problems. It's also valuable for those with a family history of allergies, anyone who has had severe reactions to food, or people wanting to confirm suspected allergies before making major dietary changes.

Question 7

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Accepted Answer

Common symptoms that suggest food or tree nut allergies include hives, skin rashes, itching in your mouth or throat, swelling of lips or face, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea after eating. More serious signs include difficulty breathing, wheezing, dizziness, or a rapid heartbeat. Even chronic symptoms like persistent eczema, unexplained fatigue, or ongoing digestive issues may indicate hidden food sensitivities worth investigating.

Question 8

How can I safely manage food allergies in daily life?

Accepted Answer

Start by carefully reading all food labels and ingredient lists, as allergens can hide in unexpected places like sauces, baked goods, and processed foods. Always inform restaurants about your allergies when dining out and don't hesitate to ask detailed questions about ingredients and preparation methods. Carry an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed, wear a medical alert bracelet, and educate family and friends about your allergies and emergency response procedures.

Question 9

What is IgE and why does it matter for food allergies?

Accepted Answer

IgE (Immunoglobulin E) is an antibody your immune system produces when it mistakenly identifies certain foods as harmful invaders. When you eat a food you're allergic to, IgE antibodies trigger the release of chemicals like histamine, causing allergic symptoms ranging from mild itching to severe anaphylaxis. Measuring IgE levels to specific foods helps identify true allergies versus food sensitivities or intolerances.

Question 10

What's the difference between a food allergy and food intolerance?

Accepted Answer

A food allergy involves your immune system and can cause serious or life-threatening reactions like difficulty breathing, swelling, or anaphylaxis, usually within minutes to hours of eating the trigger food. Food intolerance, on the other hand, doesn't involve the immune system and typically causes less severe digestive symptoms like bloating, gas, or stomach pain. This allergy panel specifically tests for true IgE-mediated allergies, not intolerances like lactose intolerance.

Question 11

How often should I retest for food allergies?

Accepted Answer

If you're a child with food allergies, retesting every 1-2 years is common since many children outgrow certain allergies, especially to milk, eggs, and wheat. For adults with confirmed allergies, retesting may be recommended every few years or if you've been strictly avoiding the allergen and want to check if the allergy has resolved. Always retest under medical supervision, and never reintroduce allergenic foods on your own without doctor guidance.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Food & Nut Allergy Test for Unexplained Reactions

Food and Tree Nut Allergy Panel

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient