Is High IgE Level Dangerous? Understanding the Risks

Medically Reviewed By
Dr Divya Rohra

Written By Kirti Saxena
on Feb 3, 2024

Last Edit Made By Kirti Saxena
on Mar 18, 2024

IGE stands for immunoglobulin E, an antibody in your immune system. It acts like an alarm, alerting your body to unwanted invaders like pollen, dust mites, or parasites. But when do IgE levels become dangerous? High IgE levels, while not inherently dangerous, can signal various health conditions. The most common reason for elevated IgE levels is none other than – allergies. Pollen, dust mites, and food intolerances – trigger IgE antibodies to go into overdrive, leading to allergic reactions ranging from mild hay fever to potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis. So, what numbers on your blood test should raise a red flag? While the normal range for IgE may vary, the levels exceeding 200 IU/mL are considered dangerous.

If you experience symptoms like frequent infections, severe allergic reactions, or unexplained skin issues alongside high IgE levels, do not hesitate to consult your doctor. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Get tested if you suspect trouble, and work with your doctor to manage allergies, infections, or immune disorders for a healthier you. Here in this blog, we will learn the risks, causes, complications, symptoms, and more.

What Causes of High IgE levels?

The reasons for high IgE levels can be different in different people. Here are some of the common causes-

Allergies- The most frequent cause of elevated IgE levels is when your immune system mistakenly identifies harmless substances like pollen, dust mites, or food proteins as threats; it produces IgE antibodies to neutralize them. This may cause allergies like runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes.
Parasitic infections- Certain parasitic infections caused by worms like hookworms or roundworms can trigger high IgE production as the immune system fights off the invaders.
Immune system disorders- Several immune system disorders cause chronic overproduction of IgE, even in the absence of specific allergens or infections.
Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID)- This condition affects the immune system’s ability to fight off infections and can sometimes lead to elevated IgE levels.
Other causes- Some medications, like antibiotics and anticonvulsants, can rarely cause a temporary elevation in IgE levels. Chronic skin conditions like eczema can sometimes be associated with slightly elevated IgE. Get an Eczema Allergy Panel Test to know if you have an eczema condition.
Genetic factors- A family history of allergies or other immune disorders can increase your risk of high IgE levels.

High IgE levels alone don’t necessarily mean you have a serious condition. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about your IgE levels or are experiencing any symptoms. Healthcare providers can help you determine the exact cause based on your medical history, family history, and other factors.

What are normal IgE levels for adults?

The normal IgE levels for adults can vary depending on the laboratory performing the test and the specific units of measurement used. The normal range of IgE levels ranges between 0 to 150 IU/ml.

What level of IgE levels are dangerous?

Well, there is no single level of IgE for everyone. It may vary from person to person over time. At the same time, the normal range of IgE levels for adults falls within the range of 150 to 1000 IU/ml.

The IgE levels above the normal range can suggest various health issues such as asthma, hay fever, or eczema. In some cases, extremely high IgE levels can cause certain rare immunodeficiency disorders. So, if you are noticing any allergic symptoms, then consult your doctor and take an IgE test.

What are the symptoms and complications of High IgE levels?

While a high IgE level isn’t a symptom, it could be due to other reasons. Here are the common symptoms of high IgE levels-

Allergy symptoms

Sneezing
Runny nose
Itchy eyes
Hay Fever
Skin Rashes
Wheezing
Difficulty breathing

Symptoms of Parasitic Infections

Fatigue
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Nausea and vomiting
Weight Loss
Anemia
Skin Rashes
Cough
Fever

Symptoms of Immune System Disorders

Eczema
Pneumonia
Delayed shedding of baby teeth
Osteopenia

Other Symptoms

Swollen lymph nodes
Chronic fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Fever

Complications of high IgE levels

Chronic allergic conditions like asthma, allergic rhinitis, and eczema
Skin infections like staphylococcus bacteria, fungal infections like candidiasis, and parasitic infections.
Chronic wounds and poor healing
Hyperimmunoglobulinemia E syndrome (HIES)
Anaphylaxis
Other immune deficiencies
Other complications
Nutritional deficiencies
Developmental delays

What to do If you have high IgE levels?

High IgE levels don’t mean you have a serious condition; it is important to track your IgE levels. Here is what you can do-

Consult your doctor- Discuss your condition with your doctor and share your concerns and symptoms. Based on your reports, your healthcare provider can advise you on the IgE Total Test. Get tested and consult your doctor to interpret.
IgE Test- Your healthcare provider will order an initial IgE blood test. This test measures the total amount of IgE in your blood. If needed, specific IgE tests for particular allergens may also be conducted.
Interpretation of Results- Your healthcare provider will interpret the test results and discuss whether your IgE levels are within the normal range. If the reports are abnormal, your doctor might recommend additional tests based on your symptoms and medical history.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause- Once the cause is identified as high IgE levels, your doctor may recommend the appropriate treatment options.
Allergy management- If allergies are the culprit, your doctor may advise you to avoid triggers by taking antihistamines.
Lifestyle adjustments- Also, your healthcare provider will advise you to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, including stress management, good eating habits, physical activity, and regular health checkups to assess overall health and manage complications.

Also Read- IgE Test – Price, Preparation, Normal Range – 2024

Takeaway

Don’t panic! Seeking medical help at the right time can help in proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. It is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations and make necessary lifestyle adjustments to support your well-being. By proactively taking the above steps and with regular health checkups, you can effectively manage your high IgE levels and maintain your overall health.

11 Comments

Babitha

Jul 24, 2024 at 10:41 AM.

ನನ್ನ Ige 675 ಆಗಿದೆ. ಮೈ ತುರಿಕೆ ಹೆಚ್ಚಾಗಿದೆ. ಚರ್ಮದ ಡಾಕ್ಟರಿನ ಚಿಕಿತ್ಸೆ ಪಡೆಯುತ್ತಿದ್ದೇನೆ. 5 ವರ್ಷಗಳಿಂದ ತುಂಬಾ ವೈದ್ಯರ ಚಿಕೆತ್ಸೆ ಪಡೆದರೂ ಯಾವುದೇ ಪರಿಣಾಮ ಕಾಣುತ್ತಿಲ್ಲ. ತೂಕ ಇಳಿಕೆಯಾಗುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಚರ್ಮ ವೈದ್ಯರ ಚಿಕಿತ್ಸೆ ಪಡೆಯುವುದು ಉತ್ತಮವೇ?

MyHealth Team

Jul 24, 2024 at 12:21 PM.

ನಿಮ್ಮ IgE ಮಟ್ಟ 675 ಆಗಿದೆ ಮತ್ತು ಮೈ ತುರಿಕೆ ಹೆಚ್ಚಾಗಿದೆ. 5 ವರ್ಷಗಳಿಂದ ಹಲವು ವೈದ್ಯರಿಂದ ಚಿಕಿತ್ಸೆ ಪಡೆದರೂ ಪರಿಣಾಮ ಕಾಣುತ್ತಿಲ್ಲ. ತೂಕವೂ ಇಳಿಕೆಯಾಗುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಚರ್ಮದ ವೈದ್ಯರಿಂದ ಚಿಕಿತ್ಸೆ ಪಡೆಯುತ್ತಿರುವುದು ಉತ್ತಮವಾಗಿದೆ, ಆದರೆ ನಿಮ್ಮ ಪರಿಸ್ಥಿತಿಯನ್ನು ಗಮನದಲ್ಲಿಟ್ಟುಕೊಂಡು, ಯಾವುದೇ ಆಮ್ಲಜನಕ ಸಮಸ್ಯೆಗಳನ್ನು ಕಳವೆ ಮಾಡುವ ತಜ್ಞರ ಸಲಹೆಗೂ ಹೋಗುವುದು ಉತ್ತಮ. ಆಯುರ್ವೇದ ಅಥವಾ ಸಮಗ್ರ ವೈದ್ಯಕೀಯ ಪರಿಹಾರಗಳನ್ನೂ ಪರಿಗಣಿಸಬಹುದು.

San

Jul 11, 2024 at 3:09 PM.

Hey! My Ige level is 3000 and I’m having rashes and also now trouble in breathing, what are the things I should avoid and also things I need to do. How to reduce ige level?

MyHealth Team

Jul 11, 2024 at 4:00 PM.

High IgE levels and symptoms like rashes and breathing difficulties need immediate attention. To reduce IgE levels and manage symptoms, avoid known allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and certain foods, as well as irritants like smoke and strong perfumes. Use medications like antihistamines and corticosteroids as prescribed by your doctor. It's important to consult with an allergy specialist for specific testing and possible immunotherapy. Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and stay hydrated.

Surekha nikam

Jul 11, 2024 at 7:34 AM.

Mere ladke ka ige leval 612 hai usko homeopathy medicine calu hai fayda hoga kya

MyHealth Team

Jul 11, 2024 at 4:07 PM.

Homeopathy treatment ka prabhav vyaktiyo ke arogya sthiti, unke sharirik avastha, aur anya karano par nirbhar karta hai. Homeopathy ilaj se labh hone ka anuman hai, lekin IgE level 612 jaise uchch star ka parikshan aur uska samay-samay par manitor karna aavashyak hai. Is vishay mein ek praveshik homeopathy vaid se paramarsh lena uchit hoga, jo aapke ladke ki sthiti ko samajhne aur sahi upchar pradan karne mein sahayak hoga.

Yana

Jul 10, 2024 at 3:20 PM.

It's so hard to trust these drs. I've switched so many. Nobody now days knows what the heck they are doing!!! All they do is guess and put you through the same stuff when clearly shows it didn't work! I have 2 girls that have food allergies. My oldest has a very high Immunaglabulin E showing on the test. About 5 years ago it showed over 8000. Recently tested her, she us at 7285. I've done these natural herbals and gut healing and still shows high. Didn't go down much. And I don't know what helped her to make it go down. Because we haven't tested her in a long time untill recently. And I've been trying so many different things. We dont know untill this day what she has. Everything so expensive. My husband only works. Supports himself and me and 2 kids. Who both have issues with allergies. My youngest when we tested her 5 years ago she was growing too with her Immunaglabulin E was going up over 2000 something. We recently tested her as well and still need to see dr in about a week. Im nerveous for her as well. We can't get free state insurance and other health insurance are so darn expensive give. Seems like all these health clinic and hospitals are just businesses hungry for money not hungry to help people's issues. I have no idea where to go...

MyHealth Team

Jul 11, 2024 at 4:48 PM.

Navigating your daughters' health challenges can be overwhelming. Consider finding a trusted specialist, joining support groups, and exploring patient advocacy resources. Documenting their health journey and asking questions can also help find effective treatments.

രഞ്ജിത്

Jul 5, 2024 at 1:56 AM.

Ige level 4000 വൈ ദിസ്‌ ലെവൽ high

MyHealth Team

Jul 5, 2024 at 8:14 AM.

Hello! An IgE level of 4000 is significantly elevated and can indicate an allergic reaction, asthma, or other immune system disorders. It is important to consult with your doctor to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. They may recommend further testing to pinpoint specific allergens or conditions. Take care!

Sunil singh bais

Jul 2, 2024 at 5:01 PM.

Bahut achchha jankari sir thanks.

MyHealth Team

Jul 5, 2024 at 10:06 AM.

We are glad you have liked the information!

MyHealth Team

Jul 5, 2024 at 10:05 AM.

Hi sunil Singh, thank You for Your Kind Words, We are Glad You Liked it.

Rony rai

Jun 20, 2024 at 4:47 AM.

Hello, good morning I have got many pimples on face,literally entire face is red with acne. It is some kind of allergy on face. Got my ige test and it shows 314. My acne is the reason for my Ige level is up? And if yes how can I reduce? My doctor provided me with proper medication but it’s not working. Later he asked me for the injection of xolair. Should I go for it?

Honey Joseph

Jun 11, 2024 at 8:50 AM.

My husband is having increased IgE level which is above 1200 .what is the risk?what is the management?what foods he needs to be avoided?

MyHealth Team

Jun 11, 2024 at 7:20 PM.

Elevated IgE levels above 1200 IU/mL can indicate increased risk for asthma, eczema, allergic rhinitis, food allergies, atopic dermatitis, allergic conjunctivitis, parasitic infections, and, rarely, immune disorders or cancers.

Management:

Consult an allergist or immunologist. Treatments may include antihistamines, corticosteroids, and avoiding identified allergens. Allergy testing can help pinpoint specific triggers.

Foods to Avoid:

Avoid common allergens such as nuts, shellfish, dairy, eggs, wheat, and soy. Also, avoid any specific foods identified through allergy testing.

Kat

May 25, 2024 at 12:14 PM.

I was hospitalized for acute hypoxic respiratory failure a couple weeks ago, after a month of oral steroids with no improvement. All my lab results were within normal range. No history of asthma or allergies (I'm 42). EKG normal. Autoimmune panel all negative. After discharge I had my primary doctor test IGE and my total IgE was 1364. Can allergies alone cause this? Is it common for severe allergies to develop this late in life?

MyHealth Team

May 27, 2024 at 11:51 AM.

Hi, Severe allergies can develop later in life and could cause elevated IgE levels like yours (1364). It's less common, but possible. Consult an allergist or immunologist for further evaluation to identify potential allergies or other underlying conditions causing your respiratory issues.

Kendall Durham

May 19, 2024 at 4:08 PM.

I've had positive ANA labs elevated Sed Rates elevated CRP for inflammation been hospitalized for sepsis pik line for IV antibiotics not really allergic to anything my skin has wounds ulcers painful sores that never heal for past 21 years low vit D. I need help I can't take the skin pain or fatigue any longer what should be my next medical move . My chart shows anything above 400 IGE is high mine is 900 . I've taken allergy test before all is fine there the only other serious abnormal at a young age I had nephritis. Any next steps????

Myhealth Team

May 20, 2024 at 8:12 AM.

Given your complex medical history including positive ANA labs, elevated Sed Rates, elevated CRP indicating inflammation, hospitalization for sepsis requiring IV antibiotics, and chronic skin issues with wounds and painful sores, it's evident that you're facing significant health challenges. Considering your low vitamin D levels, nephritis history, and elevated IGE levels, it's imperative to take proactive steps. We recommend seeking comprehensive care from specialists such as rheumatologists, dermatologists, and immunologists who can provide targeted evaluation and management. Additionally, addressing nutritional deficiencies, managing pain effectively, and ensuring emotional support are essential components of your care plan. Further testing and medication reviews can provide insights into underlying conditions and optimize treatment strategies.

Priyanka Umraniya

May 7, 2024 at 12:06 PM.

Mera ige level 2000 se jyada he

Myhealth Team

May 7, 2024 at 3:41 PM.

IGE (Immunoglobulin E) levels above 2000 IU/mL are considered significantly elevated and may indicate allergic or immune system disorders. It's essential to consult with a doctor to determine the underlying cause and appropriate management. Further evaluation and possibly additional testing may be needed to identify the specific allergy or condition causing the elevated IGE levels.