What should you know about an IgE inhalant allergy test?

The test uses a blood sample to look for allergen-specific IgE linked with substances that can be breathed in, such as house dust mites, animal dander, mould or pollen. A positive result suggests sensitisation to that substance; it does not automatically prove that exposure causes every symptom. A negative result also needs context because the panel may not include the relevant allergen. Nasal symptoms, itchy or watery eyes and breathing complaints help a clinician decide what the result means.

Tell the clinician when symptoms occur, where you were, and whether they followed cleaning, contact with animals or seasonal outdoor exposure. Bring a list of medicines and describe any skin or breathing treatment already used. Do not remove foods, pets or medicines solely because of a laboratory result. Results can help guide practical steps for [Allergic Rhinitis](/conditions/allergic-rhinitis/), [Allergic Conjunctivitis](/conditions/allergic-conjunctivitis/) or [Asthma](/conditions/asthma/), but the plan should match your symptoms.

Arrange a clinical review for persistent blocked or runny nose, repeated eye irritation, cough, chest tightness or wheezing. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, throat swelling, faintness or rapidly worsening symptoms, because [Anaphylaxis](/conditions/anaphylaxis/) requires urgent treatment. Long-lasting nasal congestion or facial pressure may need assessment for [Chronic Sinusitis](/conditions/chronic-sinusitis/).

Ask which allergens were included, whether the result fits your exposure pattern, and whether another form of [Allergy Testing](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/allergy-testing/) is useful. Ask how to reduce exposure at home, which symptoms need a reliever plan, and whether an allergy could be contributing to cough or nasal problems.