What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your IgA levels mean for your digestive health and immune function. These notes include personalized recommendations like dietary adjustments, supplement suggestions for gut health, or whether you should follow up with a gastroenterologist or immunologist. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your IgA levels over time using our trends feature to monitor improvements as you make changes.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is important for people with frequent respiratory or gastrointestinal infections, chronic diarrhea, or suspected food sensitivities. It's also valuable for those with a family history of immune deficiencies, unexplained malabsorption or weight loss, or autoimmune conditions. If you experience recurring sinus infections, ear infections, or digestive problems that don't improve with standard treatments, this test can provide important answers.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms include frequent digestive issues like chronic diarrhea, bloating, gas, or abdominal pain that doesn't respond to dietary changes. You might also experience recurring respiratory infections like sinusitis, bronchitis, or ear infections. Other signs include unexplained weight loss, difficulty absorbing nutrients, persistent fatigue, or reactions to certain foods that seem like sensitivities or intolerances.

How can I naturally support my immune and digestive health?

Supporting your gut-based immune system starts with eating a diverse diet rich in fiber, fermented foods, and probiotics to promote healthy gut bacteria. Managing stress through meditation or yoga is crucial since stress weakens immune function. Getting adequate sleep, staying hydrated, and limiting alcohol and processed foods can help maintain healthy IgA levels. Regular exercise also supports both digestive and immune health.

What is IgA and why does it matter?

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is an antibody found primarily in your mucous membranes, saliva, tears, and digestive tract that acts as your body's first line of defense against infections. It prevents bacteria and viruses from attaching to your gut lining and respiratory passages. When IgA levels are abnormal, you become more susceptible to infections and may develop problems digesting food properly, leading to malabsorption and nutritional deficiencies.

What does high IgA mean?

Elevated IgA levels can indicate ongoing infections in your respiratory or gastrointestinal tract, chronic inflammatory conditions, or certain autoimmune disorders. High IgA is sometimes seen with liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or respiratory conditions. In rare cases, very high levels may suggest a condition called IgA myeloma, which requires further evaluation by a specialist.

What does low IgA mean?

Low IgA levels or IgA deficiency means your body has reduced ability to fight infections at mucous membrane surfaces, making you more prone to respiratory and digestive infections. Selective IgA deficiency is the most common immune deficiency and can range from having no symptoms to frequent infections and digestive issues. Low levels may also be associated with certain genetic conditions like ataxia telangiectasia or autoimmune disorders.