Is High IgE Level Dangerous? Understanding the Risks

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.