Understanding Lab Tests for Respiratory Allergies
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Respiratory allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, occur when the immune system overreacts to airborne substances like pollen, dust, or animal proteins. These reactions can cause sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and difficulty breathing. Blood testing is fundamental for identifying the specific allergens triggering your symptoms.
Top Recommended Test
Respiratory Allergy Profile Region XI: AZ (mountains), CO, ID (mountains), MT, NM, UT, WY
This comprehensive panel tests for allergens common in the mountainous western United States, including exposure to mouse urine proteins and sheep sorrel pollen. Both of these allergens can cause respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and difficulty breathing in sensitized individuals living in or visiting these regions.
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Why Blood Testing is Essential for Respiratory Allergies
While respiratory allergy symptoms are often recognizable, identifying the specific triggers requires targeted testing. Blood tests can detect allergen-specific antibodies (IgE) that your immune system produces in response to particular substances. This information is crucial for developing an effective avoidance strategy and treatment plan.
Regional Allergy Testing Approach
Allergens vary significantly by geographic region due to differences in local vegetation, climate, and environmental factors. Regional allergy profiles are designed to test for the most common allergens specific to your area, providing more relevant and actionable results than generic panels.
Other Relevant Tests
Respiratory Allergy Profile Region XV: ID (south), NV
This specialized panel covers allergens prevalent in southern Idaho and Nevada, testing for tree pollens including cottonwood, maple, olive, and white mulberry. These pollens can trigger allergic reactions in sensitized individuals, causing symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, particularly during specific seasons when these trees pollinate.
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Benefits of Identifying Specific Allergens
Knowing your specific allergen triggers allows for targeted avoidance strategies, such as staying indoors during high pollen counts for specific plants or taking preventive measures around known animal allergens. This information also helps healthcare providers recommend appropriate medications and consider allergen immunotherapy when suitable.
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. Regional allergy tests should be selected based on your current location and areas where you spend significant time.
