Allergy Test: Price, Types, Procedure & Results Explained

Introduction to Allergy Test

Allergy occurs when your body reacts to certain substances by producing the IgE antibodies in your blood. Your body produces antibodies to fight off infections caused by bacteria and viruses. Sometimes, it also produces antibodies in response to allergens like pollen or peanuts. 

If you've had skin reactions like rashes, swelling, or itching, or breathing issues like sneezing, wheezing, or trouble breathing, it might be due to an allergy. This test can help determine if allergies are contributing to these problems. 

Allergic reactions may be mild in the beginning, but they can become severe or even life-threatening, if not treated in time. 

Common Allergy Triggers

Allergies can be caused by a wide range of substances, often harmless to people. However, they can be problematic for sensitive individuals. Some of the most common allergy triggers include: 

• Pollen: Found in trees, grasses, and weeds. 
• Dust mites: Microscopic insects that live in household dust. 
• Food allergens: Certain foods such as peanuts, wheat, almonds, cashews, milk, and soy can trigger reactions in sensitive people. 
• Insect stings & bites: Venom from bees, ants, or wasps can cause severe allergic reactions. 
• Pet dander: Proteins found in the skin flakes, saliva, or urine of cats, and other pets can cause allergies. 
• Mold spores: Fungi that grow in damp and humid environments. 
• Medications: Some drugs can cause allergic reactions in sensitive people. 
• Latex: Natural rubber found in latex, balloons, or medical equipment. 

These allergic reactions can cause symptoms such as: 

• Watery and itchy eyes
• Itching
• Headaches 
• Sore throat, and more

Hence, a primary step to manage these allergic reactions is the allergy screening package - essential that covers 28 parameters is a basic yet vital allergy screening package curated to detect early signs of allergic response through blood tests. It is ideal for routine health check-ups, minor symptoms, or initial screening. 

It includes 28 Parameters

• CBC = 26 parameters
• Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) 
• Total Immunoglobulin E (IgE) (key marker of allergic sensitization)

This test looks for antibodies to see if you've developed any new allergies lately. Everyone has some IgE antibodies in their blood. If you have an allergic reaction, your immune system finds those allergens as enemies and starts making more antibodies. These increased IgE levels cause the symptoms you experience.

You can book this allergy test right from the comfort of your home with Redcliffe Labs. The test helps evaluate the body’s immune response against any infection or allergy. So, why wait? Simply schedule it at your preferred time and our phlebotomist will be at your doorstep to collect the sample. 

Allergies In Children: Causes, Testing, and Prevention

Children are more prone to allergies these days, and detecting them early can prevent long-term complications. Since their immune systems are still developing, they are more sensitive to environmental and food allergens. 

Understanding the causes of allergies, when to get tested, and taking preventive steps can help parents manage allergies more effectively. 

Common causes of allergy in children

The common causes of allergy in children include

• Food allergens: Milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, soy, and tree nuts are among the most common triggers in kids.
• Environmental factors: Pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mold can cause frequent sneezing, runny nose, or itchy eyes.
• Insect bites or stings: Reactions to wasp or bee stings can be more severe in children.
• Medications: Certain antibiotics like penicillin may cause allergic reactions.
• Latex products: Balloons, medical supplies, or rubber toys can trigger skin allergies. 

When should children get tested for allergies?

Healthcare professionals may suggest an allergy test for children, if they: 

• Experience repeat episodes of symptoms: The test is crucial when you experience repeated episodes of frequent allergy-like symptoms, such as sneezing, or runny nose. These may include repeated sneezing, runny nose, or itchy eyes. These symptoms may pinpoint hidden allergies. 
• Unexplained skin reactions: Such as persistent rashes, hives, or swelling without a clear cause often require allergy testing.
• Breathing difficulties: These may include wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath, which may be triggered by environmental or food allergens. 
• Digestive problems after foods: Such as vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, or stomach pain within minutes or hours after eating meals can signal food allergies.
• Family history of allergies: Children with one parent or siblings with allergies or asthma are at a higher risk of developing these conditions themselves. 

Why are children more affected by allergies?

Children are more affected by allergies because of these three predominant reasons: 

Immature Immune System

• A child’s immune system is still developing, making them more prone to react strongly to harmful substances. 
• Over time, the child’s immune system should balance out, so it can fight germs (TH1 response) and prevent allergies (less TH2 response). However, if it doesn’t progress as it is supposed to, it increases the child’s risk for allergies. 

Genetic Disposition

• If a child belongs to a family with a history of allergies, eczema, or asthma significantly increases the risk for allergies in children. 
• If one or both parents have allergies, the risk in children increases. 

Environmental Factors

• Early-life exposure to allergens like pollen, dust mites, or certain foods, and other irritants can increase the risk of developing the condition later in life. 
• Dietary habits, lifestyle changes, and urban living also contribute significantly to a rise in allergies in children. 

How to prevent allergies in children?

While all allergies may not be prevented, parents can reduce the risk by:

• Keeping the home dust-free with regular cleaning and vacuuming. This helps remove dust, pollen, and other allergens that can trigger allergy symptoms in children. 
• Using air purifiers equipped with HEPA (High efficiency particulate air) filters can catch up to 99.97% of particles. 
• Washing hands and changing clothes, especially after playing outdoor activities helps remove these allergens. 
• Children should avoid foods that have previously triggered allergic reactions to manage allergies. 
• Do not allow children to sleep with pets; instead, restrict them from bedrooms to reduce exposure to pet allergens. 
• It is crucial that children eat a balanced diet to build a healthy immune system and stay healthy. 

Other Contributing Factors

• Additionally, skin conditions in children such as eczema may lead to food allergies in them. 
• Changes in a child’s gut microbiome may increase the risk of developing allergies.

 Test Details

Purpose of the test

The Basic Allergy Test Package is designed to detect early signs that your body is having an allergic reaction. Allergies occur when your body's immune system overreacts to substances that are usually not harmful, like pollen, dust, pet hair, or some foods. 

This package combines CBC, ESR, and Total IgE tests to help doctors figure out if your symptoms are associated with allergies. 

The test is done to:

1. Identify allergic sensitization (IgE test)

The body produces immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in response to allergens. High IgE levels suggest your immune system is triggered by allergens. Healthcare professionals may suggest the allergy test to confirm whether your symptoms such as sneezing, skin rash, and breathing trouble are allergy-related. 

2. Check for inflammation (ESR test)

Allergic reactions often cause inflammation in the body. Hence, an ESR is done to help detect the presence and degree of inflammation, and to measure whether your immune system is in an active inflammatory state.

3. Evaluate blood cells & immune response (CBC test) 

Allergies can increase your eosinophils and white blood cells, which are part of the body’s immune defense. A complete blood count (CBC) can detect these changes by checking your red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets. This provides a complete picture of your overall blood health and how your body's reacting to allergens.

4. Differentiate allergies from other conditions

This basic allergy test package also helps doctors distinguish allergies from other conditions. Many symptoms such as sneezing, rashes, and fatigue can also occur in infections or autoimmune disorders. 

5. Provide a baseline for further testing

The test results often act as the first step to decide if more advanced allergy panels are needed. 

6.Assist in treatment planning

This allergy panel helps professionals decide whether you need lifestyle changes, medications or need to contact an allergy specialist for further evaluation and advanced testing. 

7. Monitor recurrent symptoms

Allergic reactions often occur repeatedly. This test is useful for people with seasonal or repeated exposure to triggers like pollen, dust, or food. It helps track changes in IgE levels, blood counts, and inflammation markers over time. By monitoring these parameters, doctors can figure out whether your allergic response is becoming more severe or controlled. If needed, they will adjust the treatment plan accordingly. 

No matter the reason, if your healthcare provider suggests an allergy test, do not delay. Remember, early detection of allergic tendencies allows you to avoid triggers before severe reactions occur.

What does the test detect?

This allergy test helps detect the following: 

1. Allergic sensitization (IgE levels)

The test helps detect elevated immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. It indicates that your immune system is reacting to allergens such as pet dander, pollen, or food items. High IgE levels suggest your body is overreacting to normally harmless substances, confirming allergy-related tendencies.

2. Inflammation in the body (ESR)

The allergy screening package-essential also detects the presence and degree of inflammation. If your test results show raised ESR, it means your immune system is in an active inflammatory state. 

3. Blood cell changes (CBC) 

This test detects variations in your white blood cells, eosinophils, hemoglobin, red blood cells, and platelets. Allergies often cause eosinophils and white cells to increase, so these changes can point to an overactive immune system. 

Additionally, the test gives you a complete insight into your overall blood health and immune status and can help check if an infection or anemia is developing. 

Additional Note: Together, these tests detect the immune response, inflammation, and blood changes linked to allergies, giving doctors a clear baseline to guide further diagnosis or tailored management plans. 

Preparation for the test

No special preparation is needed for the allergy profile test. This allows you to eat your regular food and stay hydrated as usual, making the test convenient for people for all age groups. 

Avoid alcohol and smoking before the test. Do not stop taking your regular medicines unless prescribed to help receive the most accurate results. 

The procedure of the test

It is simple and non-invasive. It may cause you slight discomfort at the needle site, or slight bruising may occur. These symptoms are temporary reactions to needles and disappear on their own within 2-3 days. 

• A trained phlebotomist collects a small amount of blood, usually from a vein in the arm.
• The blood sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis. 
• Results are typically available within 13 hours. 

What does the test reports indicate?

Allergy screening test reports indicate whether you are sensitized or allergic to specific substances by measuring levels of allergy-related antibodies. 

The report shows: 

• Total IgE: A high IgE level suggests that your body is reacting to allergens, but it does not specify the trigger.
• Normal IgE: No significant immune overreaction to allergens at the time of testing. 
• Complete blood count: Elevated eosinophils or white blood cells can indicate immune system activation or allergic reaction. 
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): Higher levels indicate inflammation in the body. Normal ESR suggests no active systemic inflammation. 

What if the test reports are positive?

If your allergy test results are positive, you need not panic. A positive result does not always mean something to panic about, it indicates further evaluation is needed. 

Next steps may involve: 

1. Consult a doctor: Always discuss your report with an expert for professional advice in the context of your symptoms and medical history. 
2. Allergic-specific testing: Healthcare professionals may recommend specific IgE tests or skin-prick tests to pinpoint the exact allergens causing reactions. 
3. Lifestyle and environmental adjustments: Minimize contact with allergens that trigger allergic reactions. Consequently, keep your living space clean, use air filters, avoid certain foods, manage pets, and limit outdoor activities, especially during pollen season to manage symptoms. 
4. Medication or treatment planning: Depending on symptoms, doctors may suggest antihistamines, nasal sprays, or other allergy medications
5. Regular monitoring: Additionally, regular follow-ups & retesting may be advised to track changes over time. 

Who should take the test?

The allergy screening test is essential for people belonging to certain groups: 

• Experience allergy-like symptoms: Individuals who experience frequent sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, skin rashes, or breathing problems should take the allergy test. 
• Have persistent or unexplained symptoms: The test is useful for people having persistent or unexplained symptoms that don’t improve with routine care. 
• People with a family history of allergies or asthma: The test is recommended as these individuals are at higher risk due to genetic disposition. 
• Children aged 5 years and above: The test is often prescribed to children for early detection of allergies in kids. 

Additionally, anyone who struggles with skin prick tests due to skin conditions, medication interference, or allergy-related health issues to guide treatment and lifestyle adjustments may need to consider the test. 

What are the common symptoms related to allergies?

The common symptoms associated with the allergy screening package-essential are: 

• Constant sneezing and runny or stuffy nose
• Itching or tingling sensation in the nose, eyes, or mouth
• Watery eyes
• Hives, rashes, or itching
• Swelling of lips, face, throat, or tongue
• Cough, chest tightness, or shortness of breath
• Vomiting or diarrhea 

Stop Guessing, Start Knowing! Book the Allergy Screening Package-Essential at Redcliffe Labs Today!

For an affordable allergy test price of INR 699, the Allergy Screening Package - Essential helps uncover what’s silently triggering your symptoms. Through a simple blood test it is easy to detect hidden allergies, monitor your immune response, and prevent complications early. 

With accurate results, free home sample collection, and fast digital reports, booking your test is quick, easy, and hassle-free. Take the first step toward breathing easy, living an allergy-free life- book your test now! 

Conclusion

The Allergy Screening Package - Essential is a useful diagnostic tool to learn how your body reacts to substances that cause allergic reactions. It uses tests like Total IgE, CBC, and ESR to give you a complete picture of your immune system, inflammation, and overall blood health. 

Early detection helps doctors differentiate allergies from other conditions like infections or anemia. It also helps doctors decide further investigation or management. So, opt for this package if you experience allergy symptoms or if allergies and asthma run in your family.

FAQs

1. What is an Allergy Test?

An allergy test checks how your body reacts to certain things. It checks for IgE antibodies or changes in your blood counts to see if your immune system is overreacting. The test helps identify if your symptoms are caused by dust, pollen, food, or pet dander. 

2. Why should I go for an Allergy Test?

You should go for an allergy test if you often sneeze, have a runny nose, get skin rashes, trouble breathing, or notice weird symptoms. This allergy panel test can help identify the underlying cause. Early detection supports better management, stops condition from getting worse, and helps you feel better overall. 

3. How is an Allergy Test done?

A phlebotomist/lab technician inserts a needle into a vein in the arm to collect a small amount of blood. They send the sample to a NABL-certified lab for analysis of IgE levels, blood counts, or other markers that tell allergic sensitization or immune system activity. 

4. Do I need to fast before an Allergy Test?

No. You need not fast before an allergy test. However, you should inform them about your medications, especially diabetes or blood pressure. They may affect results and require temporary discontinuation before testing. 

5. How accurate are Allergy Tests?

Allergy tests are generally reliable at showing if you're sensitive to something, but they may not always tell you exactly what's causing your problems. The test results are best evaluated with your medical history and symptoms you're experiencing. If needed, your doctor might order specific allergy tests to figure out the exact triggers.

6. Can an Allergy Test detect food allergies?

Yes. Certain allergy tests can detect food-related allergies by measuring specific IgE antibodies. However, the Essential package primarily measures total IgE and blood parameters. For pinpointing food triggers, specific IgE or advanced allergy panels may be recommended by your doctor. 

7. Who should get an Allergy Test?

People with nasal congestion, itchy eyes, frequent sneezing, skin rashes, a family history of allergies or asthma or breathing issues should consider testing. It’s also useful for individuals with unexplained symptoms that may be connected with hidden or seasonal allergens. 

8. Are there any side effects of Allergy Testing?

Allergy testing is generally safe for both adults and children. You might feel a little pinch, swelling, or bruising at the needle site, but these symptoms usually go away fast. 

9. How long does it take to get Allergy Test results?

The availability of allergy test reports may vary depending on the lab. Redcliffe Labs usually provides results within 13 hours, shared digitally through email, or WhatsApp. This ensures quick access so you can discuss findings with your doctor without unnecessary delays.

10. Which Allergy Test is best for me?

The right allergy test depends on your symptoms. The Allergy Screening Package - Essential is good to begin with. If results suggest sensitization, your doctor may recommend specific IgE tests, skin-prick tests, or broader allergy panels.