Did you know that a simple blood test can determine if you have an allergy? (Copy)

An allergy is your body’s immune system responding to a substance which isn’t actually harmful. Some common allergens include pollen, nuts, shellfish, and dust mites. It’s important to know if you have an allergy so that you can avoid allergic reactions. If you’re regularly noticing symptoms such as:

• sneezing

• a runny or blocked nose

• watery eyes

• coughing

• a rash

• eczema symptoms

• difficulty breathing

then you should visit your doctor.

How a blood test can detect allergies

When testing for allergies, your blood sample will be brought into contact with suspected allergens. If you’re allergic, this is likely to prompt your body to produce a specific antibody (immunoglobulin E, if you want to get technical).

If doctors see raised levels of this antibody and know which substance elicited this reaction, then they can determine what you’re allergic to.

Why you might choose to have a blood test

• You avoid the discomfort of a skin prick test, which involves dropping liquid containing an allergen onto your forearm and pricking the skin underneath to see if it reacts. This test isn’t dangerous or painful, but it can be uncomfortable.

• It’s much faster than an elimination diet, which involves removing a specific food from your diet to see if you have fewer symptoms. You might then eat the food again to see if the symptoms return. You shouldn’t attempt this method yourself without the advice of a doctor.

• It’s less risky than any testing method which brings you into contact with possible allergens. If your doctor suspects that you might have a dangerous allergic reaction, they may recommend a blood test to mitigate the risk to you.

How you can get a blood test

Your GP will be able to advise you on which testing method is best for you. If you’re nervous about having blood taken, check out our article on overcoming needle phobia.

Many private clinics offer blood tests, including the Orchard Clinic. Our phlebotomist will take your blood sample in a quick, fifteen-minute appointment, and have it couriered to a testing lab on the same day. You usually get the results within three working days. If you discover that you do have an allergy, there are plenty of resources that can help you adjust.