Question 1

What is Allergy?

Accepted Answer

Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances called allergens. They are caused by elevated production of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in response to specific triggers like pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, or certain foods. The Respiratory Allergy Profile is the most important test for diagnosis because it measures IgE levels specific to common environmental allergens.

Question 2

What causes allergies?

Accepted Answer

Allergies are caused by an overactive immune response to normally harmless substances called allergens. When you encounter an allergen like pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, or certain foods, your immune system mistakenly identifies it as dangerous and produces Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to fight it. This triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause allergic symptoms like sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and congestion. The tendency to develop allergies often runs in families, and environmental factors can influence when and how allergies develop.

Question 3

What is the best test for allergies?

Accepted Answer

The Respiratory Allergy Profile is the most important test for allergies because it measures specific IgE antibody levels for common environmental allergens in your geographic region. This comprehensive blood test identifies exactly which substances trigger your allergic reactions, including tree pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and animal dander. Unlike skin testing, blood tests are not affected by antihistamines and are safer for people with severe skin conditions or those at risk of anaphylaxis. The test provides precise information about your allergen sensitivities, allowing your healthcare provider to create a targeted treatment plan with specific avoidance strategies and appropriate medications.

Question 4

When should I get tested for allergies?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience recurring symptoms like sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, or skin rashes that seem to appear seasonally or in certain environments. Testing is especially important if over-the-counter allergy medications are not providing relief, if your symptoms interfere with daily activities or sleep, or if you want to identify specific triggers before starting immunotherapy treatments. You should also consider testing if you have asthma that worsens with certain exposures, or if you need to know which allergens to avoid before making decisions about pets or outdoor activities.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of allergies?

Accepted Answer

Allergy symptoms vary depending on the allergen but commonly include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and scratchy throat. Respiratory allergies often cause coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness, especially in people with asthma. Skin allergies may produce hives, rashes, redness, or eczema flare-ups. Some people experience fatigue, headaches, or brain fog during allergy season. Food allergies can cause digestive symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, along with mouth tingling or swelling. Severe allergic reactions may lead to difficulty breathing, rapid pulse, or anaphylaxis requiring emergency treatment.

Question 6

Who is at risk for allergies?

Accepted Answer

People with a family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema have a higher risk of developing allergic conditions. Children are more likely to develop allergies, though they can appear at any age. Living in urban environments with higher pollution levels increases allergy risk, as does early childhood exposure to tobacco smoke. People with asthma are more susceptible to developing allergies, and those with one type of allergy often develop others over time. Occupational exposures to chemicals, dust, or animal proteins can increase allergy risk in certain professions.

Question 7

What happens if allergies are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated allergies can significantly impact quality of life and lead to chronic complications. Persistent nasal congestion and inflammation can develop into chronic sinusitis, ear infections, or nasal polyps requiring more aggressive treatment. Allergic rhinitis commonly triggers or worsens asthma, leading to more frequent breathing difficulties and potential lung damage over time. Sleep disruption from allergy symptoms causes fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and decreased productivity at work or school. Chronic inflammation from ongoing allergic reactions may also increase the risk of developing additional allergies or sensitivities to new substances.

Question 8

Can allergies be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, allergies can be accurately diagnosed with blood tests that measure specific IgE antibodies to various allergens. Blood allergy testing offers several advantages over traditional skin prick tests, including safety for people taking antihistamines, no risk of triggering severe reactions, and suitability for those with skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. The test requires only a simple blood draw and can screen for dozens of allergens simultaneously. Results typically identify specific sensitivities and their severity levels, providing comprehensive information to guide treatment decisions and avoidance strategies without requiring multiple skin punctures or exposure to allergens.

Question 9

How are allergies treated?

Accepted Answer

Allergy treatment starts with avoiding identified allergens whenever possible, such as using air purifiers, hypoallergenic bedding, and staying indoors during high pollen counts. Over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroid sprays effectively control mild to moderate symptoms. Prescription medications like leukotriene inhibitors or stronger nasal sprays may be needed for persistent symptoms. Immunotherapy through allergy shots or sublingual tablets gradually desensitizes your immune system to specific allergens, providing long-term relief. Eye drops treat ocular symptoms, while emergency epinephrine auto-injectors are essential for those at risk of severe reactions.

Question 10

How can I prevent allergies?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot completely prevent allergies from developing, you can minimize exposure to known triggers and reduce symptom severity. Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons and use HEPA filters in your home and car. Wash bedding weekly in hot water and encase mattresses and pillows in allergen-proof covers to reduce dust mite exposure. Remove shoes at the door, shower before bed to rinse off pollen, and keep humidity levels between 30-50 percent to discourage mold and dust mites. If you are allergic to pets, keep them out of bedrooms and bathe them regularly. Monitor daily pollen counts and plan outdoor activities accordingly.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with allergies?

Accepted Answer

Natural approaches can complement medical treatment for allergy relief. Saline nasal rinses or neti pots flush out allergens and mucus from nasal passages, reducing congestion and irritation. Local honey may help build tolerance to local pollen, though scientific evidence is mixed. Quercetin, a natural antihistamine found in onions, apples, and berries, may stabilize cells that release histamine. Butterbur extract has shown promise in reducing hay fever symptoms in some studies. Probiotics support immune system balance and may reduce allergic responses. Vitamin C acts as a natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory. However, always consult your healthcare provider before starting supplements, especially if you take medications.

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.

Allergy Blood Test

What is Allergy?

What causes allergies?

What is the best test for allergies?

When should I get tested for allergies?

References

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