Questions and Answers

A whole allergen blood test shows what type of allergen you may be sensitized to, while an allergen component test can determine at the molecular level what components (proteins) can cause the reaction. Allergen components can help assess the risk for suffering severe, systemic reactions versus experiencing more benign symptoms; explain symptoms due to cross-reactivity, […] Read More

Unlike a skin-prick test, a blood test can be performed on anyone, no matter the condition of their skin—even during an eczema flare-up. A blood test can also be performed on someone while currently on medication, including antihistamines. It is also safe to perform on someone who is pregnant. Read More

Anyone experiencing allergy-like symptoms can receive specific IgE (sIgE) blood testing. For babies and very young children, one blood sample collection is often less traumatic than the several scratches of a skin-prick test (SPT). Read More

If you are atopic, or have a predisposition toward developing allergic reactions, your body may produce an antibody called Immunoglobulin E (IgE) that is specific to what causes your allergic reactions. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is a protective mechanism that is produced when you are exposed to a substance that your body views as a threat. […] Read More

Everyone has a different reaction to insect stings. But in general, there are three types of reactions to insect venom: A normal reaction with pain, swelling, and redness around the sting. A large local reaction where swelling has gone beyond the sting. For example, if you’re stung on the ankle, your entire leg may swell […] Read More

Most people are not allergic to insect venom, but the pain from an insect sting may make them think they are. Venom from bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, and fire ants could cause an allergic reaction. Understanding the difference between a normal reaction and an allergic reaction might save you an unnecessary appointment with your […] Read More

For most people, being stung by a bee, wasp, or hornet is annoying and maybe a little painful, but it is not a life or death situation. However, if you have an allergy to one of these insects, one sting can potentially be serious—the venom can cause a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. A normal […] Read More

Symptoms from a weed pollen allergy can be similar to those of many other seasonal allergies. Common weed pollen allergy symptoms can include: Sneezing; Stuffy nose (nasal congestion); Runny nose; Scratchy throat; Irritated eyes; Coughing; Wheezing. Read More

There are hundreds of weeds that release pollen that can trigger your allergic reactions. Some of these weeds include: Dock; Mugwort; Nettle; Oilseed Rape; Ragweed; Rough Marsh Elder; Rough Pigweed; Russian Thistle; Sheep Sorrel. Read More

Weeds release tiny particles called pollen—some you can see, some you can’t. Because of their microscopic size, weed pollen easily travels in the air and can get in your eyes, nose, or lungs. Everyone breathes in weed pollen, but not everyone has a reaction to it. These symptoms are part of a reaction that is […] Read More