How do I know if I have an allergy? – When to get testing
You may have a cold when you have teary eyes or nasal congestion. However, you may have an allergy if you only feel ill when you’re outside, around pets, or eat particular foods. Some allergy sufferers sneeze excessively or develop hives or rashes that do not extend to other body parts. Get more information and allergy testing in Edinburgh at Newington Pharmacy and Travel Clinic.
On the other hand, other individuals may have such a severe allergic reaction that they experience breathing difficulties and may require immediate medical attention.
It’s important to note if you have any allergies so that you can avoid the substances that cause them, known as allergens, and seek medicine if necessary.
Consult an allergist, a specialist who is well-versed in allergies if you have an allergy that’s not eased by over-the-counter drugs or suspect you have an allergy to certain foods.
They’ll inquire about your general well-being and any asthma or allergy history in your family. They will also assess you and suggest a few tests to confirm your suspicions.
What is the best way to get allergy tested and where can I get allergy testing near me in Edinburgh?
A blood test is the most popular approach to check for allergies. This is due to the fact that it provides the quickest and most precise results.
Mould, fur, pollen, pets, foods as well as some medicines are common allergens. At Newington Pharmacy and Travel Clinic.
If you’re taking medication that could alter your allergy test results, have had a negative reaction to a skin test or have sensitive skin, your doctor may recommend a blood test instead.
A blood sample is submitted to the lab, and the results are returned to your doctor after several days.
Food Allergies
If your doctor suspects you’re allergic to one or more foods, they may advise you to avoid them for a while to see if it helps. This is called an elimination diet.
You’ll avoid the suspected triggers for two to four weeks to determine if you develop any allergy symptoms.
If you have no allergic reactions, your doctor may advise you to reintroduce the foods to see whether your symptoms return. If they do, you’re likely to be allergic to such foods.
Your doctor may also ask you to participate in an oral food challenge. However, an allergist should always perform this test in a medical setting.
Your doctor will administer very small quantities of the food that you might be sensitive to and monitor your symptoms. If you do not have any, they’ll gradually increase your doses. They’ll halt the test if you begin getting symptoms.
A flushed feeling or hives are the most typical symptoms. They’ll offer you medication if that happens. However, you can rule out an allergy to that food in case you do not have a reaction.
Is allergy testing near me in Edinburgh worth it?
When you have allergies, your entire outlook on life changes. You don’t travel to outdoor events or weekend getaways without bringing your allergy medicine with you to aid with your sniffling, sneezing and other symptoms.
While medication may provide some comfort, an allergy test may be necessary if you want a more long-term solution.
Pollen, pet dander and mould are commonly the “usual suspects,”. However, there are dozens of probable causes for allergies, and finding relief requires getting to the root of the problem.
An allergy test is the best line of action in situations like this. This will assist the pharmacist in determining not only which allergens are causing your symptoms, but also a foundation for initiating immunotherapy and long-term treatment for persistent allergies.
When should I get an allergy test?
It’s time to consult an allergist if you’re constantly ill, coughing, or have congestion in your head. Asthma and allergy symptoms often appear gradually over time.
Sneezing, nasal congestion, and wheezing are common allergy symptoms, and sufferers may become accustomed to them. You may typically treat or manage these symptoms with the aid of an allergist hence resulting in a significant improvement in health.
Managing asthma and allergies effectively requires planning, knowledge, and patience.
With their specialist knowledge, the allergist can create a treatment regimen for your specific problem.
Get in touch with us today for more information and to get tested.
This blog post was written on behalf of Newington Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.