screening for allergy

Overview

Allergy screening (also called allergy testing) helps find out if your immune system overreacts to harmless things, such as pollen, dust mites, certain foods, or pet dander. It can show what may be causing symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, or a rash.

Allergies are very common. Many people consider allergy testing if they have hay fever, asthma, or food reactions.

Allergy screening can be helpful for anyone, but it is often recommended for children and younger adults with ongoing nasal, skin, or breathing symptoms.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Sneezing, runny or blocked nose
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Itchy skin or hives (red bumps on the skin)
• Coughing, wheezing, or breathlessness

Symptoms in children

• Eczema, which is dry, itchy skin
• Reactions after eating certain foods, such as vomiting, stomach pain, or hives
• Frequent cold-like symptoms that last a long time

Symptoms in older adults

• New or worsening nasal congestion
• Itchy eyes or skin that appear for the first time
• Breathing symptoms that may be mistaken for a chest infection or COPD

Causes

Main causes

• Allergies happen when your immune system mistakes a harmless substance (called an allergen) for a threat and makes antibodies to fight it. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, mould, animal dander, insect stings, and certain foods.

Risk factors

• Having family members with allergies or asthma
• Having asthma or eczema
• Being exposed to allergens early in life
• Having a weakened immune system

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have wheezing or trouble breathing (but are still awake and able to talk)
• Your lips or face swell noticeably
• You break out in severe hives that do not settle

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have ongoing symptoms like sneezing, congestion, or itchy eyes for weeks
• You suspect a certain food causes reactions
• You want help identifying your triggers and making a management plan

Diagnosis

A doctor or allergy specialist starts by asking about your symptoms, when they happen, and your family history. They may then recommend allergy testing, which usually involves a skin prick test or a blood test.

Tests that may be done

• Skin prick test: a small drop of allergen is placed on your skin and the skin is lightly pricked to see if a red bump appears.
• Blood test (called specific IgE): a sample of your blood is checked for allergy antibodies.
• Patch test: patches with possible allergens are placed on your back for about 48 hours to see if your skin reacts. This is used for contact allergies.

What to expect at your appointment

The tests are simple and safe. A skin prick test can itch a little, but the feeling passes quickly. Your doctor will explain the meaning of your results and how to use them to manage your symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment for allergies usually involves avoiding the allergen, soothing symptoms with medicine (as recommended by your doctor), and sometimes immunotherapy to help your immune system become less sensitive.

Self-care at home

• Avoid known triggers, like staying indoors when pollen is high
• Use a saline nasal rinse to wash allergens out of your nose
• Keep windows shut and use a HEPA filter to reduce indoor allergens
• Wash bedding in hot water to cut down on dust mites

Medical treatments

Your doctor may suggest allergy medicines like antihistamines, nasal sprays, or eye drops. For long-term relief, immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops given under specialist care) can help you build tolerance over time. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice.

Living with this condition

Living with allergies means paying attention to your triggers and making small adjustments, like changing what you buy or using a daily routine. Most people find that with planning, allergies are very manageable.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep a diary to note when symptoms appear and what you think may have caused them
• Carry any medicines your doctor has prescribed or recommended
• Read food labels carefully and ask when eating out if you have food allergies

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced, healthy diet supports your immune system. If you have a food allergy, it is very important to avoid that food completely. Exercise is good for you, but if you notice symptoms after activity, talk to your doctor.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Allergies can sometimes make you feel frustrated, tired, or anxious, especially if symptoms are constant. That is normal. If allergy worries affect your mood, sleep, or daily life, consider talking to a counsellor or your doctor.

Prevention

There is no guaranteed way to stop allergies from developing. But you can reduce your risk of severe reactions by knowing your triggers and avoiding them. Immunotherapy can also make you less sensitive over time.

Vaccines

Vaccines are important for everyone, including people with allergies. If you have ever had a serious allergic reaction to a vaccine, talk to your doctor before receiving another one. Allergy testing can be part of that conversation.

Screening programmes

Allergy screening does not prevent allergies, but it identifies your triggers. With that knowledge, you can avoid allergens and lower your chance of serious symptoms.

Complications

If left untreated

• Long-term allergy symptoms can disturb your sleep and make it hard to focus
• Constant nasal congestion can lead to sinus infections
• Undiagnosed food allergies can cause sudden, severe reactions (anaphylaxis)
• If you have asthma, uncontrolled allergies can make it worse

Long-term outlook

Most people with allergies can lead a full, active life. Allergy testing helps you understand your body and take practical steps to feel better. With the right support, you can usually keep symptoms under good control.

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