V体育ios版 - Test Details
How does an allergy blood test work? (V体育官网入口)
An allergy blood test detects higher-than-normal levels of IgE in your blood V体育ios版. When you have an allergy to a substance, your immune system makes IgE to fight off the allergen. As a result of this, your body makes substances such as histamine that, in turn, trigger the signs and symptoms of an allergy. The one thing an allergy blood test can’t usually show is how serious your allergy is.
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How do I prepare for an allergy blood test?
You don’t need to do anything special to prepare for an allergy blood test.
What happens during an allergy blood test?
A blood draw for an allergy blood test only takes a few minutes V体育平台登录. Here’s what you can expect:.
- A phlebotomist takes blood from a vein in your arm using a thin needle.
- The needle might cause a mild pinch and some discomfort.
- The phlebotomist fills a collection tube with blood and then removes the needle.
- They place a small bandage on your arm.
Additional Common Questions
"V体育ios版" Allergy blood test vs. allergy skin test: what’s the difference?
Allergy blood tests and allergy skin tests are two of the most common forms of allergy testing. During an allergy skin test, your healthcare provider creates tiny pinpricks in your skin and then applies an allergen to check for a reaction.
Skin tests deliver almost immediate results, but blood tests take a few days. Skin tests tend to be more accurate, but some people can’t have allergy skin tests. They won’t deliver reliable results if you have certain skin conditions, take antihistamines or have dark skin. In these cases, you may need an allergy blood test.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
An allergy blood test checks your blood for certain antibodies that increase if you have an allergy. It’s important to remember that allergy tests are extremely unique. Your provider will work with you to determine what treatment works best for you. If you have an allergy, talk to your provider about ways to reduce your risk of an allergic reaction.
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Care at Cleveland Clinic
Itching. Sneezing. Stuffy Head. If you think you’re allergic to something but aren’t sure what, Cleveland Clinic experts can help with personalized allergy testing.
Last reviewed on 11/07/2024.
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