Understanding The Different Types Of Allergy Test With

Allergies are a common problem affecting millions of people worldwide. They occur when the immune system overreacts to a substance, such as pollen or animal dander that is harmless to most people. If you suspect you have an allergy, it is important to identify the allergen so that you can take steps to avoid it. This is where allergy testing comes in. Several different types of allergy tests Dubai are available, and we will discuss each in detail in this article.

Skin prick test:

The skin prick test is the most common allergy test and involves pricking the skin with a small amount of the allergen. If you are allergic to the substance, your skin will develop a raised, red, and itchy bump within 15 minutes. This test is usually performed on the forearm or back and can be used to test for multiple allergens simultaneously.

Intradermal test:

The intradermal test is similar to the skin prick test but involves injecting a small amount of the allergen just below the skin’s surface. This test is more sensitive than the skin prick test and is often used to confirm a suspected allergy after a negative skin prick test result.

Patch test:

The patch test is used to test for allergic contact dermatitis, a type of allergic reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an allergen, such as nickel or latex. The test involves placing a small amount of the allergen onto a patch that is applied to the skin. The patch is usually left in place for 48 hours, and if you are allergic to the substance, your skin will become red, itchy, and inflamed.

Blood test:

The blood test, also known as a radioallergosorbent test (RAST) or an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), measures the amount of allergen-specific antibodies in your blood. The test is less sensitive than skin testing but can be useful in cases where skin testing is not possible or has produced inconclusive results.

Elimination diet:

An elimination diet involves removing suspected allergens from your diet for some time and then gradually reintroducing them to see if any symptoms recur. This type of testing can be useful for identifying food allergies but is unsuitable for all allergens.