Blood Testing

What is Allergy Blood Testing?

Allergy blood testing is a very accurate way to identify specific allergens that cause allergic reactions. By measuring the levels of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your child’s blood, this test will pinpoint the exact allergens causing symptoms, such as food allergies, environmental allergens and insect stings.

Not like skin prick tests which involve exposing the skin to allergens, blood testing is non-invasive and safe. This is especially great for children with sensitive skin or those who have had severe reactions to skin testing. At Empower Allergy Treatment, we use the latest blood testing technology to give you a comprehensive understanding of your child’s allergy profile.

How Does Blood Testing Work?

Allergy blood testing is simple and easy. Here’s how it works for you and your child:

1. Initial Consultation: During the first visit, your allergist will do a full assessment of your child’s symptoms, medical history and lifestyle to determine which allergens to test for.‍
2. Blood Sample Collection: A small blood sample is taken from your child’s arm using a needle. It only takes a few minutes and the sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.‍
3. Lab Analysis: In the lab, the blood is tested for specific IgE antibodies. These antibodies are produced by the immune system when exposed to allergens and elevated levels means your child is allergic to that substance.‍
4. Results and Diagnosis: Once the results are processed (usually within a few days), your allergist will review the findings and tell you which allergens are causing your child’s symptoms.

Benefits of Allergy Blood Testing

Allergy blood testing is a great tool for diagnosing allergies, especially for children. Here’s why you may want to consider this:

• Safe for Sensitive Skin: Since blood tests don’t involve exposing your child’s skin to allergens, it’s perfect for children with sensitive skin or those who have had adverse reactions to skin prick tests.
• Accurate Results: Blood tests give very accurate results, identifying your child’s exact allergens. This is especially important for food allergies such as peanuts, eggs, milk or shellfish.
• ‍Low Risk: Unlike skin tests, there’s no direct exposure to allergens, reducing the risk of an allergic reaction. Blood tests are safer for children, especially those with severe allergies.
• Full Allergy Profile: Allergy blood testing can test for many allergens including food allergies, pollen, pet dander and insect stings. This will give you a full picture of what’s causing your child’s symptoms.

Who Should Get Allergy Blood Testing?

Allergy blood testing is suitable for many children, especially those with severe or complex allergies. It’s recommended for:

• Children with Severe Allergic Reactions: If your child has had anaphylaxis or other severe allergic reactions to foods, environmental factors or insect stings, blood testing is a safe way to identify the triggers.
• Children Who Can’t Tolerate Skin Testing: For children who find skin tests uncomfortable or have sensitive skin, blood testing is a non-invasive and stress-free option.
• Children with Multiple Allergies: If your child has multiple allergies or you’re not sure which allergens are causing symptoms, blood testing will give you a full allergy profile.

Benefits of Blood Testing for Food Allergies

For children with food allergies, blood testing has many advantages:

• Pinpoint Specific Food Triggers: Blood tests will identify specific food allergies, such as to peanuts, eggs, milk or shellfish. This is especially important for children with multiple food sensitivities.
• Long Term Allergy Management: Knowing which foods your child is allergic to will help you create an effectively managed plan so they can avoid their triggers and reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
• Avoid Unnecessary Avoidance: Blood testing gives you accurate information, so you won’t have to guess or try and test. You can avoid unnecessary restrictions and make informed decisions about your child’s diet and lifestyle.

How Accurate is Blood Testing?

Blood testing for allergies is very accurate but, like all medical tests, not 100% precise. False positives can occur, meaning the test might show an allergy when there isn’t one. False negatives can also happen, where the test misses an allergy that’s present.To get the best results, you must work closely with your allergist to review the results. The results should always be considered with your child’s medical history and symptoms.

Risks and Side Effects

Allergy blood testing is generally safe but there are some risks to be aware of:

• Bruising or Discomfort at the Injection Site: A common and temporary side effect, usually mild.
• Rare Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, some children may have an allergic reaction to the materials used during the blood draw process, like antiseptics. This is usually mild and resolves quickly.

Conclusion

Allergy blood testing is a must-have for food allergies and environmental sensitivities in children. It’s a safe, accurate and full allergen test to help you manage your child’s allergies and avoid life threatening reactions.

If your child is experiencing unexplained allergic symptoms or having trouble with skin tests, blood testing might be the answer. Empower Allergy Treatment can guide you through the process and create a personalized plan to manage your child’s allergies.

Contact Us Today to learn more about allergy blood testing and how it can help you identify and manage your child’s food allergies.