Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is a condition where the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens causing nasal inflammation and respiratory symptoms. It is caused by exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander, which trigger the production of IgE antibodies and histamine release. The IgE blood test is the most important test for diagnosis because it measures the specific antibodies your immune system produces in response to allergens.
90-day money-back guarantee
Lab order in minutes
Save a trip to the doctor
Low prices since 2005
Labs within 2 miles
Allergic rhinitis is caused by an overactive immune response to airborne allergens including pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, dust mites, mold spores, and animal dander from pets like cats and dogs. When you breathe in these allergens, your immune system mistakenly identifies them as harmful invaders and produces IgE antibodies, which trigger mast cells to release histamine and other inflammatory chemicals. This cascade of immune reactions causes the characteristic symptoms of sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy, watery eyes that define hay fever.
The IgE blood test is the most important test for allergic rhinitis because it measures the specific IgE antibodies your immune system produces in response to allergens like pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander. This test directly identifies which substances trigger your hay fever symptoms and helps guide targeted treatment approaches. For more comprehensive allergen identification, regional respiratory allergy profiles are essential as they test for multiple specific allergens common to your geographic area, such as the Respiratory Allergy Profile for your region, which screens for local tree pollens, grasses, weeds, molds, and indoor allergens that commonly cause allergic rhinitis symptoms.
You should get tested if you experience recurring sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, or nasal congestion that worsens during certain seasons or after exposure to specific environments. Testing is especially important if your symptoms interfere with sleep, work, or daily activities, if over-the-counter medications are not providing adequate relief, or if you want to identify your specific allergen triggers to develop a targeted avoidance and treatment strategy. Early testing helps you understand exactly what you are allergic to so you can take preventive measures and pursue appropriate treatments like allergen immunotherapy.
Save a trip to the doctor, go directly to the lab
Instant orders, results often overnight*
Results explained in simple language
Reviewed by US licensed doctors
Fast & confidential, we never sell or share your data
No insurance needed, transparent pricing
What this means
Your IgE levels are elevated, which indicates your immune system is overreacting to allergens in your environment or diet. This can explain symptoms like frequent sneezing, itchy eyes, skin rashes, or breathing difficulties. While elevated IgE doesn't pinpoint specific allergens, it confirms you have an active allergic response that may benefit from further investigation and management.
Recommended actions
Keep a symptom diary to identify potential allergen triggers like foods, pollen, or pet dander
Reduce exposure to common allergens by using air purifiers and hypoallergenic bedding
Include anti-inflammatory foods like fish, berries, and leafy greens in your diet
Consider specific allergy testing to identify exact triggers and discuss treatment options with an allergist
Not overhyped or overpriced. Just comprehensive blood testing made simple and for everyone.
3303 reviews
Sample results
Your 24/7 Personal Lab Guide
Quick questions:
