Allergy and sensitivity tests explained

The word sensitivity is broad and may refer to immune sensitisation, irritation, or symptoms that are not allergic. Clarifying what the test measures is essential before acting on it.

Skin-prick testing checks for a local reaction to selected allergens. Specific-IgE blood testing measures immune antibodies to chosen substances and may be considered when skin testing is unsuitable.

Patch testing addresses delayed contact reactions and answers a different question. None of these tests is a general scan for every possible cause of fatigue, bloating, headache, rash, or nasal symptoms.

Write a timeline for each reaction, including the suspected exposure, route of contact, symptom sequence, and any treatment used. Note whether exercise, illness, alcohol, or another medicine was present at the same time.

Keep taking prescribed treatment unless the clinic instructs you otherwise. Some medicines can suppress skin responses, so request preparation instructions rather than changing treatment on your own.

Seek emergency help for sudden breathing difficulty, a tight or swollen throat, severe wheeze, fainting, collapse, or a rapidly progressing reaction. Follow your prescribed emergency plan and use adrenaline promptly when instructed.

Book a routine review when reactions recur, the trigger remains uncertain, asthma worsens around exposures, or avoidance is disrupting food choices, work, sleep, or daily activities.

Ask what diagnosis the proposed test is designed to assess, what a positive or negative result would mean for you, and whether a supervised exposure challenge is needed. Also request a written action plan if there is a risk of a severe reaction.