Total IgE

These tests are performed to determine whether an individual has an allergy to certain animals. They are done when a person has allergy-like symptoms after exposure to cats, dogs, horses, cows, or guinea pigs.

The test is performed on a blood sample which is drawn from a vein in your arm.

High levels of specific IgE antibodies in your blood can mean you have an allergy to a particular substance. However, the results should always be interpreted in conjunction with your symptoms and clinical history.

The frequency of these tests can depend on the severity of your symptoms and whether or not the allergen can be avoided.

While allergies cannot be cured, they can be managed with avoidance measures, medications, and in some cases, immunotherapy.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include sneezing, itching, hives, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis in severe cases.

Treatments can include avoiding the allergen, medications to relieve symptoms, and immunotherapy to desensitize the body to allergens.

Yes, it's possible for an allergy test to give a false-negative result, which means the test indicates you are not allergic when you actually are.

Yes, a false positive, when the test indicates that you are allergic to a substance when you actually are not, can also occur.

The best way to prevent allergic reactions is to avoid exposure to the allergen. However, this may not always be possible. In such cases, medications and immunotherapy can help.

IgE is a type of antibody that is produced by the immune system when it overreacts to an allergen. It triggers the release of certain chemicals that cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Yes, you're more likely to have allergies if they run in your family.

In case of a severe allergic reaction like anaphylaxis, immediate medical attention is necessary. It's typically treated with a shot of epinephrine (adrenaline).

Yes, it is possible to develop allergies at any age. Some people may not experience an allergic reaction until adulthood.

The tests are important tools in diagnosing allergies. They can provide valuable information about what substances you may be allergic to, so that you and your doctor can develop a treatment plan to help manage your symptoms. However, these tests are not definitive. You can have high levels of IgE antibodies to a substance but never experience symptoms when exposed to that substance. Therefore, these tests should be used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools and clinical symptoms for an accurate diagnosis. Always consult your doctor if you are experiencing symptoms of an allergic reaction.