Food allergy testing: All you need to know

Food allergies are a growing concern in today’s society, affecting millions of people worldwide. An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system overreacts to a specific food, triggering a range of symptoms from mild to severe. Symptoms can occur within minutes to hours after eating the food and can include hives, itching, swelling, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even anaphylaxis, a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction.

The most common food allergies include peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, milk, eggs, soy, and wheat. However, any food can cause an allergic reaction. It is important to note that food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity, are different from food allergies, as they do not involve the immune system.

If you suspect that you have a food allergy, it is crucial to get tested as soon as possible. Food allergy testing is a simple blood test that measures the levels of antibodies in your blood that react to specific foods. If you have an allergy, your body produces an abnormal amount of these antibodies when you eat the food.

Testing can identify which foods you are allergic to, enabling you to manage your symptoms and avoid the foods that trigger your allergic reactions. Delaying testing can lead to continued exposure to allergens and potentially more severe reactions in the future.

At-home food allergy testing is becoming increasingly popular, providing a convenient and accessible way to get tested. Health2Home offers food allergy testing from the comfort of your own home. Our nurse will come to you to take a blood sample, which is then sent to our laboratory for analysis. We provide a comprehensive report of your results, along with guidance on how to manage your symptoms and avoid the foods that trigger your allergic reactions.