Allergy Testing - What Are Your Choices and the Related Benefits?

Allergy intolerance testing can be used to establish the specific allergen at the root of your condition. There are a handful of allergy tests available performed by medical Doctors as well as holistic practitioners such as Nutritionists, Naturopaths, Herbalists, Homeopaths and Kinesiologists. Testing aims to identify the presence of the IgE antibody or, in the case of food intolerance, the IgG antibody. Common methods used to identify allergens include blood, skin prick and patch tests. The type of test used depends on the symptoms and condition of your skin.

In this way, Skin prick testing is often initially recommended when an allergy is suspected. This is a simple, quick and inexpensive testing method which can provide feedback and results within 15-20 minutes.

Blood tests are very common and often carried out in a GP surgery or hospital. A fine needle is used to take a small sample of blood from a vein in the arm in order for minimal discomfort. The test can provide valuable feedback for all allergy forms and is useful for inhaled and ingested or consumed allergens.

Patch testing is performed in the incidents of contact dermatitis or eczema where an allergy is suspected.

Challenge tests involve introducing allergens to the lung (in the case of bronchial allergies such as asthma), nose or eye. This type of testing can help to identify food allergies whereby the patient is given certain foods 'blind' in order to monitor their effects on the body. From the results of your allergy intolerance tests, your practitioner will then advise you on the cause and necessary treatment of your allergy.

Allergy intolerance testing can help treat conditions such as allergies, arthritis, circulation problems, constipation, fungal infections, hormone imbalances, insomnia, migraines, sinusitis and skin conditions.

Allergy intolerance testing is a safe and effective diagnostic tool when carried out by a trained practitioner. It is wise to carry out some research and select a homeopath who is either a member of, or accredited by, an association or professional body. Allergy intolerance specialists are obligated to a code of ethics and procedure that determines the therapy is carried out in a suitable and safe environment. These regulations also guarantee a specialist who has undergone certifiable training and receives professional upskilling.