Allergy tests help identify allergies through skin, blood, or patch tests. A normal range shows no allergic reaction, while an abnormal result indicates sensitivity. The cost varies based on the test type, but it is generally affordable. Though safe, the risks include mild redness, itching, or, rarely, severe reactions.
What is the Allergy Blood Test?
Immunoglobulin E (IgE), a component found in your blood, is measured during an allergy blood test. Your body produces the antibody IgE. You may have higher levels of IgE in your blood if you have allergies.
Why is the Allergy Blood Test Done?
If you experience allergy symptoms, your doctor may ask for allergy testing. Allergy blood tests offer several benefits, including:
- Accurate Results: Blood tests measure IgE antibodies, providing a reliable indication of allergies to specific substances, such as food, pollen, or pet dander.
- Comprehensive Testing: They can detect a wide range of allergies, including environmental, food, and insect venom allergies, offering a more thorough evaluation.
- No need to stop medications: Unlike skin tests, blood tests can often be done without stopping antihistamines or other medications.
- Suitable for Sensitive Individuals: Ideal for people who cannot undergo skin testing, such as those with certain skin conditions or a high risk of severe allergic reactions.
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Get Second OpinionWhen is the Allergy Blood Test Needed?
An allergy blood test may be needed if you experience the following symptoms:
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy eyes
- Vomiting
- Watery eyes
- Hives
- Diarrhoea
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Wheezing
Who Should Take the Allergy Blood Test?
You may need an allergy blood test if:
- You cannot have allergy skin testing.
- You have skin conditions that prevent skin testing.
- You take medications that may affect the results of skin tests.
- You are suspected of having a severe allergic reaction.
- Young children may find skin testing too unpleasant.
How Should I Prepare for the Allergy Blood Test?
When preparing for an allergy blood test:
- Consult your healthcare provider first.
- You may need to halt certain medications beforehand for accurate results.
- Mention recent illnesses, allergies, or medical conditions that may impact the test.
- Bring a list of your current medications.
- On the test day, stay hydrated and avoid caffeine and alcohol.
- Stay calm before the test to reduce stress, as it can affect your blood test results.
What Type of Sample is Collected for the Allergy Blood Test and How?
A healthcare provider will take a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is then tested for Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to check for allergies to things like pollen, pet dander, food, or mold.
Are There Other Ways to Collect the Sample for the Allergy Blood Test?
No alternate methods are typically used. Venous blood collection remains the standard and preferred method for this test.
How is the Allergy Blood Test Performed?
- A healthcare provider cleans the area on your arm.
- A small needle is inserted into a vein to draw blood.
- The blood sample is collected into a tube.
- The site is covered with a bandage after it is collected.
- The sample is sent to a lab for IgE testing.
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How Long Does the Allergy Blood Test Take?
Collecting the blood sample usually takes a few minutes. Results can generally be expected within 12 to 24 hours, depending on the laboratory's processing time.
When Will I Get My Allergy Blood Test Results?
You will usually receive your Allergy Blood Test results within 12 to 24 hours, depending on the lab's processing time. Reports are sent directly to you via WhatsApp or provided as a printed copy. Once you have your results, our doctor will explain them and guide you on the next steps, if needed.
How Do I Understand My Allergy Blood Test Results?
- High total IgE: You may have an allergy, but it doesn't reveal which specific allergen is causing it or how severe the allergy might be.
- High specific IgE for a particular allergen: Indicates that you could be allergic to that allergen, but it doesn't predict the severity.
- Your healthcare provider may recommend a treatment plan or refer you to an allergy specialist.
If you are at risk for anaphylactic shock (a severe allergic reaction), you must be careful to avoid trigger substances and may need to carry an epinephrine auto-injector. Common causes of anaphylaxis include specific foods, medications, insect bites, and latex.
What Should I Do After Getting My Allergy Blood Test Results?
- Follow the treatment plan your healthcare provider has provided.
- If needed, avoid known allergens strictly.
- Carry emergency medication like an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed.
- Discuss with your doctor any additional testing or ongoing allergy management.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects of the Allergy Blood Test?
Allergy blood tests are generally safe. However, you might experience:
- Bruising or soreness at the blood draw site.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness during or after the test.
- Rarely, infection at the needle site.
Is the Allergy Blood Test Painful?
The test is generally painless, though you may feel a quick sting or slight discomfort when the needle is inserted.
What are the Factors Affecting the Allergy Blood Test Cost?
The cost may vary depending on:
- Type of allergy test (total IgE or specific allergen IgE)
- Diagnostic center
- City or location
- Additional services like doctor consultation or sample pickup
How Much Does the Allergy Blood Test Cost in India?
The cost for an allergy blood test in India typically ranges between Rs.4,000 to Rs.5,000. Prices may vary depending on the diagnostic center and city.
Allergy Blood Test Price Table by Location
| City | Price Range (Rs.) |
| Hyderabad | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Chandanagar | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Karimnagar | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Nizamabad | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Warangal | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Visakhapatnam | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Srikakulam | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Kakinada | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Kurnool | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Nellore | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Vizianagaram | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Navi Mumbai | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Nashik | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Chh. Sambhajinagar | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Pune | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Sangamner | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
| Bangalore | Rs. 4,000 - 5,000 |
Note: The actual price may vary slightly based on the diagnostic center, city, and additional services offered.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Allergy triggers, such as dust, pet dander, trees, grasses, weeds, and molds specific to your area of residence, are often screened for in allergy blood testing. They are very beneficial in identifying food sensitivities.
Allergies are caused when the immune system reacts to common inhalants like pollen, dust mites, medications, certain foods, latex, venom, and other substances.
Blood and skin allergy tests both can reveal a patient's susceptibility to allergies but skin testing is mostly used by skilled allergists for accurate results.
An IgE test is a blood examination that assesses a person's blood levels of various IgE antibodies, IgE tests are also used to identify and treat food allergies. In rare circumstances, they can also be useful for identifying environmental allergies.
The lgE level can range between 150 to 1,000 UI/ml, but the usual level above 150 and 300 UI/ml is considered high.
The symptoms that indicate allergies are eczema, itching, or hives. swelling of the neck, lips, cheeks, or other body parts, breathing difficulties, nasal congestion, or wheezing.
No, Allergy Tests are not always accurate, it may show false negatives or false positives sometimes.
The cost of an Allergy Panel Test (Comprehensive) is Rs. 4000 to Rs. 5000. However, it can vary from place to place.
Skin allergy test results are usually immediate, as the reactions are observed during the procedure. However, blood allergy test results may take a few days to process, as they need to be analyzed in a laboratory. It's best to consult with your healthcare provider for specific timelines based on the type of allergy test performed.
