What causes nettle allergy?

Nettle allergy is caused by an overactive immune response to proteins found in stinging nettle pollen. When you breathe in nettle pollen, your immune system mistakenly identifies these harmless proteins as dangerous invaders and produces IgE antibodies to fight them. This triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause allergic symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and respiratory discomfort.

What is the best test for nettle allergy?

The Respiratory Allergy Profile Region IX is the most important test for nettle allergy because it specifically measures IgE antibodies to nettle pollen along with other common regional allergens. This blood test provides definitive diagnosis by detecting elevated levels of nettle-specific IgE antibodies in your blood, confirming your sensitivity. Unlike symptom-based assessments, this test gives you concrete evidence of nettle allergy and helps distinguish it from other environmental sensitivities, allowing your healthcare provider to create a targeted treatment plan.

When should I get tested for nettle allergy?

You should get tested if you experience sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, nasal congestion, or respiratory discomfort during certain times of the year, especially if you live in Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, or South Dakota where nettle pollen is common. Testing is also important if over-the-counter allergy medications are not providing relief or if you want to know exactly which allergens are triggering your symptoms so you can take preventive measures.

What are the symptoms of nettle allergy?

Nettle allergy symptoms typically include frequent sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy and watery eyes, scratchy throat, postnasal drip, and sinus pressure. Some people also experience coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing, especially if they have asthma. These symptoms usually occur during nettle pollination season or when you are in areas with high nettle pollen concentrations, and they may worsen on windy days when more pollen is in the air.

Who is at risk for nettle allergy?

People with a family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema are at higher risk for developing nettle allergy. Those living in regions where stinging nettle grows abundantly, such as Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota, have increased exposure and risk. Individuals who already have other environmental allergies like ragweed or grass pollen are also more susceptible to developing nettle pollen sensitivity due to cross-reactivity between similar plant proteins.

What happens if nettle allergy is left untreated?

Untreated nettle allergy can lead to chronic sinusitis, frequent sinus infections, and worsening of asthma symptoms. Long-term exposure without treatment may result in allergic rhinitis becoming a year-round problem rather than seasonal, significantly impacting your quality of life with constant congestion, fatigue, and poor sleep. Additionally, ongoing inflammation in your airways can increase your risk of developing new allergies and may make your immune system more reactive to other environmental triggers.

Can nettle allergy be diagnosed with a blood test?

Yes, nettle allergy can be definitively diagnosed with a blood test that measures specific IgE antibodies to nettle pollen. Blood testing is convenient because it requires only a single blood draw, does not require you to stop taking antihistamines beforehand, and carries no risk of allergic reaction during the test itself. The results show the exact level of IgE antibodies in your blood, with higher levels indicating stronger allergic sensitivity to nettle pollen.

How is nettle allergy treated?

Nettle allergy is treated with antihistamines to block histamine release and reduce symptoms like sneezing and itching, nasal corticosteroid sprays to decrease inflammation in your nasal passages, and decongestants for temporary relief of stuffiness. For severe or persistent allergies, your doctor may recommend immunotherapy (allergy shots or tablets) that gradually desensitize your immune system to nettle pollen over time. Avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollen times and keeping windows closed during nettle season also helps minimize exposure.

How can I prevent nettle allergy symptoms?

You can prevent nettle allergy symptoms by monitoring pollen counts and staying indoors when levels are high, typically on dry, windy days. Keep windows closed during nettle pollen season and use air conditioning with HEPA filters to remove pollen from indoor air. When you do go outside, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes, shower and change clothes after being outdoors to remove pollen, and avoid touching your face with unwashed hands. Starting allergy medications before symptoms begin can also help prevent reactions.

What natural remedies help with nettle allergy?

Natural remedies that may help with nettle allergy include using saline nasal rinses to flush out pollen and mucus from nasal passages, drinking butterbur supplements which have shown anti-inflammatory effects, and consuming local honey to potentially build tolerance to regional pollens. Quercetin, a natural antihistamine found in foods like apples and onions, may help stabilize mast cells and reduce histamine release. Using a neti pot daily during allergy season and applying cool compresses to your eyes can provide immediate relief from itching and swelling.

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.

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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?

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Nettle Allergy Blood Test | Private MD Labs

Nettle Allergy Blood Test

What is Nettle Allergy?

Nettle allergy is an environmental allergic reaction triggered by exposure to stinging nettle pollen. It is caused by an overactive immune response where the body produces IgE antibodies against nettle pollen proteins. The Respiratory Allergy Profile Region IX is the most important test for diagnosis as it measures specific IgE antibodies to nettle pollen and other regional allergens.

Written by Private MD Labs Medical Team

Last updated: December 30, 2025

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!

754-799-7833

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