Is 2023 the time for you to get an allergy test?

14th December 2022

Is 2023 the time for you to get an allergy test?

We’re on the precipice of a new year. Oh how the time has flown by. This period of transition into a new year is a time for reflection. When they look at where they want to be in 12 months’ time, and resolve to make a change. It’s the perfect occasion to stand up and say you’re actually going to do those things you’ve been putting off.

For many, it means going to the gym, eating healthier, or making more time for themselves. But we think there’s one aspect of your health you should pay extra attention to: your potential allergies. Why not start 2023 feeling better and get an allergy test? Here’s why we think now is the perfect time.

Why take an allergy test now?

Because a new year means a new start. Also, because it’s a motivational time for many, so why not channel that into something useful? This isn’t to say you should take an allergy test if you have no symptoms. But if you have been experiencing something not quite right, and you’re struggling to put your finger on it, then it’s worth doing.

The main benefit? It can help you feel better. Maybe you’ve got a mild rash that comes or goes, or certain food turns your stomach a bit. These are the kinds of symptoms many people just get on with. But if you knew how to fight them, you wouldn’t have to deal with them anymore. You can have crystal-clear skin or feel less bloated all day.

Another good reason is it’s just safer. Knowing what you’re allergic to allows you to avoid it and the accompanying symptoms. Since some severe allergies can be fatal, being in the know is better than being in the dark.

Is there anything to worry about?

For the people who aren’t fans of going to the doctors or potentially dealing with needles, let us put your mind at ease. Allergy tests don’t have to be invasive or involve taking blood. These are options, but you’ll be glad to know about patch tests.

This is when a doctor puts patches of potential allergens on the skin to see how your body reacts to them. They have to stay there for around 48 hours before they can assess the reaction, though. A step up from this is a skin prick test. This is similar, except they make a small prick in your skin to allow the allergen to seep in. It’s mostly painless, but some do find it uncomfortable.

Of course, a blood test is likely going to be one of the better tests to take. But if you’re squeamish about this, at least go and have the conversation with your doctor or an allergy specialist to discuss your options.

What would the benefits be?

Well, you’ll be free! Free of whatever symptoms have been holding you down. And you might find it’s a huge weight off your shoulders. Even if your test comes back negative, at least you’ll be able to cross that option off your list.

We also want to stress that this is a great course of action no matter what your age. New allergies can appear seemingly out of nowhere, even as an adult. So a regular check-up is the perfect way to achieve peace of mind.

So why not start 2023 in the best way possible? As a healthy, confident person who knows what they like and don’t like. And always remember, listen to your body if you experience a new sensation. It knows what it’s talking about.

Don’t worry for a second longer. By becoming a patient with us, you have access to a team of allergy specialists who can walk you through the process and your results. Get in touch with us today on 02031 433 449.

Allergy tests: what are the different types?

9th December 2020

Allergy tests: what are the different types?

Allergies are probably more common than you think. And what you don’t want to do is just live with it. Sure, it might just be a little inconvenient, but they can also be deadly in the worst-case scenarios. That’s why we always like to stress the importance of having your potential allergies tested.

But there are different types and certain allergy tests are better suited for certain people. Some tests can’t even be used to identify certain allergies. There are many ways to get tested for allergies, but which test does what? And how long do results take to come in?

Skin tests

There are a few methods for allergy testing on the skin, including intradermal, patch, and prick testing. 

Patch tests just involve putting a patch of potential allergens on the skin. These tests tend to take longer though, with you having to wait 48 hours until the doctor assesses the reaction.

Also called a scratch test, skin prick testing (SPT) is done by placing solutions containing potential allergens on the skin. One of the most common allergy tests, SPTs are very safe and generally don’t hurt, but can be a bit uncomfortable. But they have been known to show “false-positives”. About 50-60% of these tests show an allergy when, in reality, you might not. Despite this, they could still be very useful in the hands of a good allergy specialist. SPTs are straightforward and results are ready in about 15 minutes.

Intradermal testing is similar, only the allergen solution is placed under the surface skin instead of on the surface. The intradermal test tends to be more sensitive than the SPT and can provide more consistent results. Like SPTs, the test results are ready in 15 minutes and have been known to sometimes indicate an allergic reaction when there isn’t one.

Blood/RAST

Blood tests are often done alongside skin tests, but can also be used when skin tests aren’t appropriate. Introducing allergens to the body can be dangerous for those with asthma or those at risk of experiencing life-threatening anaphylaxis. A blood test eliminates this risk which is why they’re often considered safer.

A bit more invasive, blood tests draw your blood, which can be used to check for multiple allergens. Blood tests can also be a good option for those with skin problems like eczema, which could be complicated by an SPT. Unfortunately, blood results can take up to 2 weeks to come in.

There are many ways to get tested for a suspected allergy, and one test may be more suited for you than others. If you find yourself suffering from what appears to be an allergic reaction, be sure to contact an allergy specialist for their recommended course of action.

At Allergy Clinic London, we have multiple tests available to help you identify and control your allergies. To talk to someone about your allergies, contact us on 02031 433 449.