Testing for Allergies: How to Get Tested

Frequently Asked Questions about Allergy Testing

Answers to some of the most common questions about testing

WHAT IS AN ALLERGIC SENSITIZATION TEST?

This is a blood test that is quick and simple. It measures the amount of allergen specific antibodies in the blood (IgE), which is an indicator of allergic sensitization. This powerful diagnostic tool can test for hundreds of allergic triggers, such as pollen, mold, food, and animal dander and can be  performed at any age. This blood test can help your healthcare professional determine if you are allergic, and to what.

WHAT ALLERGIES CAN I BE TESTED FOR?

You can be tested for just about anything you encounter that could cause allergy symptoms. A blood test is commonly used to identify sensitizations to pollens, molds, animal dander, foods, dust mites, insect venoms, and some medications. 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ALLERGIC SENSITIZATION TESTING?

There are many benefits to getting this blood test - also called a specific IgE (sIgE) blood test. Unlike a skin-prick test, an allergic sensitization test can be performed on anyone no matter the condition of their skin - even during an eczema flare-up. It can also be performed on someone while currently on medication, including antihistamines. This blood test is also safe to perform on someone is who pregnant. 

IS ALLERGIC SENSITIZATION TESTING FOR CHILDREN OR ADULTS? 

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).  

HOW IS AN ALLERGIC SENSITIZATION TEST PERFORMED?

A small sample of blood is drawn and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results are returned a few days later for your healthcare professional to interpret alongside your medical history and reported symptoms. This combination will help your healthcare professional confirm or rule out a suspected allergy.

HOW DO I GET AN ALLERGIC SENSITIZATION TEST?

The first step is to speak with a healthcare professional about your symptoms and concerns. Any healthcare provider can order specific IgE blood testing, but for a more informative appointment, here’s a list of questions to help guide your conversation and maximize your time. 

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET AN ALLERGY TEST?

Typically, it takes a few days to get blood test results back because the blood sample has to be sent to a lab for processing. 

DO I NEED TO HAVE HEALTH INSURANCE?

Most health insurance plans, including medicare and medicaid, cover sIgE testing. For more specific information, contact your insurance company or take a look at the above provider options for associated costs if you do not currenly have health insurance. 

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GET AN ALLERGY TEST?

The cost for an allergy test varies and can also be dependent on the number of allergens, or triggers, tested. It all depends on your health insurance coverage and the lab that runs the test. For more specific information, contact your insurance company or take a look at the above provider options for associated costs.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS? LEARN MORE ABOUT TESTING FOR ALLERGIES