Question 1

What is Histamine Intolerance?

Accepted Answer

Histamine intolerance is a condition where the body cannot effectively break down histamine, leading to an accumulation of this compound in the bloodstream. It is caused by a deficiency in the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO), which normally breaks down histamine in the digestive tract. The Histamine, Plasma test is the most important test for diagnosis because it directly measures histamine levels in the blood.

Question 2

What causes histamine intolerance?

Accepted Answer

Histamine intolerance is caused by a deficiency in the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO), which is responsible for breaking down histamine in your digestive tract. When your body does not produce enough DAO or when the enzyme is not functioning properly, histamine accumulates in your bloodstream instead of being broken down. This buildup leads to symptoms that resemble allergic reactions even when you are not exposed to allergens. Certain medications, gut health issues, and genetic factors can also contribute to reduced DAO activity and worsen histamine intolerance.

Question 3

What is the best test for histamine intolerance?

Accepted Answer

The Histamine, Plasma test is the most important test for histamine intolerance because it directly measures the amount of histamine circulating in your bloodstream. Elevated plasma histamine levels indicate that your body is struggling to break down this compound effectively, which explains symptoms like headaches, flushing, itching, and digestive problems. The Histamine Release (Chronic Urticaria) test is also valuable as it evaluates abnormal histamine release patterns, particularly useful if you experience chronic hives or persistent skin reactions. Together, these tests provide a comprehensive picture of how your body is processing histamine and whether intolerance is the underlying cause of your symptoms.

Question 4

When should I get tested for histamine intolerance?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience recurring headaches, skin flushing, itching, hives, or digestive issues like bloating and diarrhea after eating certain foods, particularly aged cheeses, fermented foods, alcohol, or cured meats. Testing is also recommended if you have allergy-like symptoms without any identifiable allergen triggers or if antihistamine medications seem to provide relief for your symptoms. If your symptoms worsen after meals or if you notice patterns related to specific high-histamine foods, getting tested can help identify whether histamine intolerance is the root cause and guide you toward the right dietary and treatment approaches.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of histamine intolerance?

Accepted Answer

Histamine intolerance causes a wide range of symptoms that mimic allergic reactions. Common symptoms include headaches or migraines, skin flushing, hives, itching, nasal congestion, and digestive issues like bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea. You might also experience dizziness, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, anxiety, and fatigue. Some people notice worsening symptoms during menstruation or after consuming high-histamine foods like aged cheeses, wine, fermented foods, cured meats, and certain vegetables. The symptoms often appear 30 minutes to several hours after eating trigger foods and can vary in intensity from person to person.

Question 6

Who is at risk for histamine intolerance?

Accepted Answer

People with digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), leaky gut syndrome, or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) are at higher risk because these conditions can damage the intestinal lining where DAO is produced. Women are more susceptible than men, particularly during hormonal fluctuations like menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. Those taking certain medications including antibiotics, NSAIDs, antidepressants, and some blood pressure medications may experience reduced DAO activity. People with mast cell activation disorders, food sensitivities, or a family history of histamine intolerance are also at increased risk.

Question 7

What happens if histamine intolerance is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If histamine intolerance is left untreated, symptoms can become more severe and frequent, significantly impacting your quality of life. Chronic inflammation may develop throughout your body, potentially worsening gut health and creating a vicious cycle of reduced DAO production and increased histamine accumulation. Persistent symptoms like migraines, digestive problems, and skin issues can lead to nutritional deficiencies, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and depression. Over time, untreated histamine intolerance may contribute to the development or worsening of conditions like chronic urticaria, asthma, eczema, and other inflammatory disorders. Early diagnosis and management through testing, dietary changes, and appropriate supplementation can prevent these complications.

Question 8

Can histamine intolerance be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, histamine intolerance can be diagnosed with blood tests that measure histamine levels and histamine release patterns. The Histamine, Plasma test measures the concentration of histamine in your bloodstream and is the primary diagnostic tool for detecting elevated histamine levels. The Histamine Release (Chronic Urticaria) test evaluates how your body releases histamine, which is particularly helpful if you have chronic hives or skin reactions. Some healthcare providers may also test DAO enzyme levels to assess your body's ability to break down histamine. While blood tests are valuable diagnostic tools, your healthcare provider will combine test results with your symptom history and dietary patterns for a complete diagnosis.

Question 9

How is histamine intolerance treated?

Accepted Answer

Histamine intolerance is primarily treated through a low-histamine diet that eliminates or reduces high-histamine foods like aged cheeses, fermented products, alcohol, cured meats, and certain fish. Your healthcare provider may recommend DAO enzyme supplements taken before meals to help break down dietary histamine. Antihistamine medications can provide symptom relief during flare-ups. Addressing underlying gut health issues through probiotics (specifically strains that do not produce histamine), healing leaky gut, and treating conditions like SIBO is essential for long-term management. Some people benefit from vitamin C, vitamin B6, and quercetin supplements, which support natural histamine metabolism. Working with a healthcare provider or nutritionist familiar with histamine intolerance ensures a personalized treatment plan.

Question 10

How can I prevent histamine intolerance?

Accepted Answer

Preventing histamine intolerance involves maintaining good gut health through a balanced diet rich in fresh, unprocessed foods and taking probiotics that support digestive function. Avoid prolonged use of medications that interfere with DAO production, such as certain antibiotics and NSAIDs, unless medically necessary. Eat freshly prepared foods rather than leftovers, as histamine levels increase in foods as they age or are stored. Manage stress through relaxation techniques, adequate sleep, and regular exercise, as stress can trigger histamine release. If you have digestive issues, address them promptly to prevent damage to the intestinal lining where DAO is produced. Limiting alcohol consumption and being mindful of high-histamine foods can also help maintain healthy histamine levels.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with histamine intolerance?

Accepted Answer

Several natural remedies can help manage histamine intolerance symptoms. Vitamin C acts as a natural antihistamine and helps break down histamine in the body, so increasing your intake through supplements or fresh fruits may provide relief. Quercetin, a plant flavonoid found in onions, apples, and green tea, stabilizes mast cells and reduces histamine release. Fresh ginger and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe digestive symptoms. Drinking plenty of water helps flush excess histamine from your system. Stinging nettle tea is a traditional remedy that may reduce histamine-related inflammation. Probiotic strains like Bifidobacterium infantis and Lactobacillus plantarum support gut health without producing histamine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting new supplements, especially if you are taking 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:
            
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                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.
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
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            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
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            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.
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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.
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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!
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            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Histamine Intolerance Blood Test

What is Histamine Intolerance?

What causes histamine intolerance?

What is the best test for histamine intolerance?

When should I get tested for histamine intolerance?

References

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