An allergy is a type of immune response in which your immune system reacts abnormally to a substance that is usually harmless. The substance, called an allergen, can be anything from pollen, dust, pet dander, foods, insect stings, or certain medications. Where can I do allergy tests near me in Glenrothes? Continue reading to find out.
When a person encounters an allergen, their immune system creates an antibody called Immunoglobulin E (IgE) that attaches to the allergen. This triggers the release of chemicals like histamine from basophils and mast cells. It then leads to inflammation and symptoms like itching, swelling, sneezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing.
Common types of allergies
Allergies can range from mild to severe. They can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, respiratory system, digestive system, or cardiovascular system. Some people may develop anaphylaxis, a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
Allergies are quite common and affect millions of people worldwide. They can develop at any age, and you can inherit or acquire it.
Allergies come in various types, however, some of the most prevalent ones include:
Hay Fever (Allergic rhinitis)
This is a response to allergens that are in the air, such as dust mites, pollen, or pet dander. Some of the common symptoms include stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, watery or itchy eyes, as well as itching in the roof of the mouth, throat, or nose.
Food intolerances
A food allergy is a reaction to specific food proteins, including those found in fish, shellfish, eggs, milk, soy, or tree nuts. Hives, itchiness or swelling of the lips, face or throat, diarrhoea, nausea or vomiting, and trouble breathing are just a few of the symptoms that you may have.
Insect sting allergies
This is a response to venom from an insect sting, like the one from a bee, hornet, wasp, or yellow jacket, which releases venom. Symptoms can include hives, anaphylaxis, or more severe reactions like itching, swelling or redness at the sting site.
Drug allergies
A drug allergy is an adverse reaction to a particular drug, such as an antibiotic, a painkiller, or a chemotherapy treatment. Symptoms may include hives, itching, a rash, or more serious reactions such as anaphylaxis.
Latex sensitivity
Proteins found in latex, a form of rubber used in condoms, gloves, and medical supplies, can cause a type of allergy known as latex allergy. Common symptoms include rash or redness, itching, as well as more serious reactions like anaphylaxis.
How do I know if I have an allergy to something?
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
– Runny nose
– Tenderness or soreness in the cheekbones, forehead, or eyes
– Breathlessness, coughing or wheezing
– An itchy or raised rash (hives)
– Swelling of the eyes, mouth, throat, or lips
– Diarrhoea
– Feeling or being ill
How do I know if I have hay fever?
Hay fever is one of the most common allergies. It affects about 1 in 5 people at some point in their lives. Hay fever symptoms are typically brought on by an allergic reaction to pollen.
The following are typical hay fever signs and symptoms:
– Blocked or runny nose
– Cough, that’s brought on by postnasal drip
– Allergic conjunctivitis (itchy, red or watery eyes)
– Frequent sneezing
– An itchy nose, mouth, throat and ears
Below are some less common symptoms:
– Anosmia (loss of the sense of smell)
– Headaches
– Facial pain (due to blocked sinuses)
– Earache
– Fatigue and tiredness
If you have asthma, hay fever may exacerbate your symptoms.
What are the common types of allergy tests near me in Glenrothes?
Based on the presumed allergen as well as the form of the reaction being examined, there are various approaches to test for allergies. Here are some of the most commonly used methods:
Skin prick test
In this test, you apply a tiny amount of an allergen extract to your skin and prick, scratch, or otherwise break the skin to let the extract enter your body. The test gauges the size of the lump or wheal that develops on your skin as a result, which may signify an allergic reaction.
Blood test
A blood test is used to measure IgE antibodies associated with allergies in your blood. IgE antibody levels that are high may signify an allergy.
Patch test
To diagnose skin allergies, such as those caused by metals or cosmetics, a healthcare provider applies tiny patches to the skin containing various allergens and checks for any reactions. This is known as a patch test.
Elimination diet
To identify potential allergens, you can try an elimination diet where you remove a suspected allergen from your diet and gradually reintroduce it to see if symptoms reappear.
Challenge test
In the challenge test, you deliberately expose yourself to a potential allergen under supervised conditions to see if a reaction happens.
Where can I get allergy tests near me in Glenrothes?
Book your appointment with or visit Cadham Pharmacy today to do your allergy tests near you in Glenrothes.
This blog post was written on behalf of Cadham Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
