How can it be detected?

By an allergy test. Allergy tests are any of several tests used to determine the substances to which you are allergic. They may also be used to determine if a group of symptoms is a true allergic reaction, which involves antibodies and histamine release.

There are many methods of allergy testing.

The more common are:

• 
  1. Skin tests –
  Done by drops of diluted suspected of causing allergy which are placed on to your arm or back. Then, the skin is scratched or pricked so the allergen goes under the skin's surface. Signs of a reaction on the skin will be watched to look for an allergy.
• 
  2. An elimination diet -
  This type of eating plan involves removing specific foods or ingredients from your diet that you suspect may be causing symptoms.
• 
  3. Blood Test-
  measures the amount of specific IgE antibodies in the blood.
  These antibodies are present if there is a true allergic reaction. It is used to check for an allergy to a specific allergen(s).
  Groups of tests, such as food panels or regional weed, grass, and mould panels, can be measured as well as specific allergen which can be chose from a list of individual allergens which are suspected of causing your allergy.
  At Diagnostic Healthcare you can find a very detailed list of all the common allergens in the UK.

Is any preparation necessary?

No - - no preparation is required for this examination.


What will happen at my appointment?

After checking in at the reception of Diagnostic Healthcare, you will be asked for a very detailed medical history. This includes questions about illnesses, emotional and social conditions, lifestyle, foods, and eating habits.