Understanding Lab Tests for Histamine Intolerance
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Histamine intolerance is a condition where the body cannot effectively break down histamine, leading to an accumulation of this compound in the bloodstream. This results in symptoms that mimic allergic reactions, including headaches, digestive issues, skin problems, and flushing, even without exposure to allergens.
Top Recommended Test
Histamine, Plasma
This test directly measures histamine levels in the blood plasma. People with histamine intolerance typically show elevated histamine levels due to their body's difficulty breaking down this compound. Elevated plasma histamine can help explain symptoms such as headaches, itching, flushing, and digestive issues that occur without clear allergic triggers.
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Diagnosing Histamine Intolerance
Because histamine intolerance symptoms overlap with many other conditions, including food allergies and digestive disorders, specific laboratory testing is essential for accurate diagnosis. Blood tests can measure histamine levels and assess how the body processes this important compound.
Other Relevant Tests
Histamine Release (Chronic Urticaria)
This specialized test evaluates histamine release patterns associated with chronic urticaria (persistent hives). Since histamine intolerance leads to excess histamine in the body that can trigger urticaria-like symptoms, this test helps identify abnormal histamine activity that may be causing chronic skin reactions and other allergy-like symptoms.
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Understanding Your Results
Elevated histamine levels or abnormal histamine release patterns may indicate that your body is struggling to process histamine effectively. This information, combined with your symptoms and medical history, can help healthcare providers develop an appropriate treatment plan, which may include dietary modifications and enzyme supplementation.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
