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Allergies are reactions of the immune system to substances that are otherwise harmless to most people. These substances, known as allergens, can include pollen, dust, certain foods, animal fur, medications, and many others. When a person who is allergic comes into contact with an allergen, their immune system recognizes it as a threat and triggers a series of reactions that can range from mild symptoms such as sneezing and itching to serious conditions like asthma and anaphylactic shock. Over the past few decades, the number of people suffering from allergies worldwide, including Croatia, has significantly increased, making allergies one of the leading health problems of today.
Early detection of allergies is extremely important as it allows timely measures to be taken that can prevent the worsening of symptoms and reduce the risk of serious complications. Allergies not only affect the quality of life but can also be life-threatening if not treated properly. For example, an undiagnosed food allergy can lead to dangerous reactions such as anaphylactic shock, while chronic pollen or dust allergies can cause long-term respiratory problems, including asthma. For this reason, testing for allergens plays a crucial role in establishing an accurate diagnosis and developing an effective treatment plan.
Most common allergens
We differentiate several types of allergens, and each of them can provoke specific reactions depending on how a person comes into contact with them. Below is an overview of the most common allergens that can affect health.
Food
- Dairy products – milk, cheese, and other dairy products are often associated with allergies, especially in children. Symptoms can range from mild digestive issues to serious anaphylactic reactions.
- Eggs – egg allergy is also common, especially in children, and can cause rashes, digestive disturbances, and even respiratory problems.
- Nuts – peanuts, almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts are some of the most well-known allergens that can trigger serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
- Gluten – a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, gluten can cause allergic reactions as well as celiac disease, which is an autoimmune disorder.
- Fish and shellfish – many people are allergic to seafood, and reactions can be very serious, including anaphylactic shock.
Inhalant allergens
- Pollen – one of the most common causes of seasonal allergies (allergic rhinitis) that cause symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
- House dust and mites – mites are microscopic organisms that live in house dust and often trigger cold-like symptoms, such as nasal congestion, cough, and sneezing.
- Pet dander – proteins found in the saliva, skin, and urine of pets like cats and dogs can cause allergic reactions, particularly respiratory symptoms.
- Mold – fungi that grow in damp conditions can be serious allergens, causing respiratory problems, especially in individuals with asthma.
Contact allergens
- Nickel – a metal found in jewelry, clasps, and other metal objects that often causes contact dermatitis, manifested by redness, itching, and rashes.
- Latex – a natural rubber material used in medical gloves, balloons, and other products that can trigger serious allergic reactions.
- Chemicals in cosmetics and cleaning products – certain chemicals in cosmetics, soaps, detergents, and perfumes can cause skin reactions in sensitive individuals.
Medications and insect stings
- Medications – some medications, like penicillin and aspirin, are known allergens that can trigger a wide range of reactions, from rashes to anaphylactic shock.
- Insect stings – stings from bees, wasps, and other insects can cause severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, including dangerous anaphylactic shock.
It is important to note that an allergy is not the same as an intolerance. An allergy involves an immune response to a specific allergen, while intolerance typically involves digestive issues caused by the body's inability to digest a certain substance (e.g., lactose). While intolerance can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and cramps, it is usually not life-threatening like an allergy.
Methods of allergen testing
There are several methods of allergen testing used to identify substances that may trigger allergic reactions. Each method has its advantages and limitations, and the choice of the appropriate test depends on the type of allergy, symptoms, and individual patient needs. Below is an overview of the most common methods of allergen testing.
Skin tests (Prick test)
The Prick test, also known as the skin prick test, is one of the most commonly used methods for allergy detection. During this test, small amounts of various allergens are introduced into the skin, usually on the inner side of the forearm or on the back, using small needles or lancets. The goal is to provoke a reaction that appears as a small red bump (wheal) if the person is allergic to the specific allergen.
How is the Prick test performed?
The testing is performed under the supervision of an allergist or dermatologist in controlled conditions. Before starting the test, the skin is cleaned, and then drops of a solution containing allergens are applied. The skin is lightly pricked through a drop of allergen, allowing a small amount of allergen to enter just below the skin's surface. Reactions are monitored and measured after 15 to 20 minutes.
Blood tests (IgE tests)
Blood tests for allergies, such as specific IgE tests, measure the presence and level of specific IgE antibodies in the blood that are associated with certain allergens. This test is often used when the Prick test is impractical or contraindicated, as in the case of individuals with skin diseases, who cannot temporarily stop taking antihistamines, or who have serious allergic reactions.
How is a blood test performed?
A blood test is done by taking a small amount of blood, usually from a vein in the arm. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. Results typically come back within a few days and will show the presence and level of IgE antibodies to specific allergens.
Patch tests
Patch tests are used to detect contact allergies, such as those caused by nickel, latex, or chemicals in cosmetics. These tests differ from the Prick tests as they do not involve needles or pricks. Instead, allergens are applied to the skin using special patches that remain on the skin for 48 hours.
How is a Patch test performed?
A Patch test is performed by applying allergen-soaked patches to the patient's back. The patches are left on the skin for 48 hours, after which they are removed, and the reactions on the skin are checked and recorded. An additional check is performed after another 48 hours to check for delayed reactions.
Provocative tests
Provocative tests involve directly exposing the patient to the suspected allergen, usually under strict medical supervision. These tests are conducted when other tests do not yield clear results or when confirmation of the diagnosis is needed, especially for food or medication allergies.
How is a provocative test performed?
During a provocative test, the patient is gradually exposed to increasing amounts of the allergen (e.g., certain foods or medications) until allergic reaction symptoms appear. The test is conducted in controlled conditions, often in a hospital, due to the possibility of severe reactions.
Diagnosis and treatment plan
Allergen testing represents the first step in the process of discovering allergies, but it is equally important to accurately diagnose and develop a treatment plan that will effectively control symptoms and improve quality of life. In this chapter, we discuss how an allergy diagnosis is made and what treatment and management options for allergies are available.
How is an allergy diagnosis made?
Making an allergy diagnosis is not solely based on test results but involves a detailed review of the patient's clinical history. The allergist combines the results of skin, blood, or other tests with information about the symptoms the patient experiences, the history of family allergies, environmental factors, and potential triggers of allergic reactions.
The doctor will analyze which allergens caused a positive reaction during the testing and relate them to your symptoms. For example, if you have symptoms such as sneezing and itchy eyes during springtime and tests show a reaction to pollen, the doctor will diagnose you with a pollen allergy.
In some cases, additional tests or monitoring of symptoms may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. This may include provocative tests or keeping a symptom diary to identify the precise circumstances under which allergic reactions occur.
Treatment and control of allergies
Once a diagnosis is made, the next step is to develop a treatment plan that will help you control symptoms and avoid allergic reactions. The treatment plan typically includes a combination of avoiding allergens, pharmacotherapy, and, in some cases, immunotherapy.
The best way to prevent allergic reactions is to avoid substances you are allergic to. Depending on the type of allergy, the doctor will advise you on how to minimize exposure to the allergen in your daily life.
If you are allergic to pollen, the doctor will recommend closing windows during pollen season, using air purifiers indoors, and avoiding outdoor activities in the early morning hours when pollen concentration is highest.
For food allergies, careful reading of product labels and avoiding food that contains allergens will be necessary. The doctor may also recommend wearing a medical bracelet that alerts others to your allergy.
If you are allergic to nickel or other metals, avoid wearing jewelry that contains those metals and opt for alternative products, such as stainless steel or plastic jewelry.
In some cases, avoiding allergens may not be sufficient to control symptoms, and the doctor will recommend using medications that can help manage allergies.
Allergen testing at Priska Med Clinic
Allergen testing represents the first step in the process of discovering allergies, but it is equally important to accurately diagnose and develop a treatment plan that will effectively control symptoms and improve quality of life. At Priska Med Clinic, you can undergo testing for the following allergens:
GRASS POLLEN
WEED POLLEN
TREE POLLEN
MITES
MOLD
ANIMALS
FOOD
At Priska Med Clinic, we offer professional allergen testing services through several methods. Our team of experienced professionals ensures that you receive accurate results and timely diagnosis, along with personalized treatment plans for effective allergy management.
If you are interested in allergen testing or consulting with our experts, please contact us:
📞 By calling 099/444-3344
📧 By email at poliklinika@priska-med.com