Alex Allergy Test London – 300 Allergens Tested

An allergy is an abnormal immune system response to substances that are usually harmless to most people. These substances, known as allergens, can trigger an allergic reaction in individuals who are sensitive or allergic to them. Common allergens include certain foods, pollen, animal dander, insect stings, mould spores, and certain medications.

When a person with allergies comes into contact with an allergen, their immune system may overreact and produce antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies trigger the release of chemicals, such as histamine, into the bloodstream. Histamine and other chemicals are responsible for the symptoms of an allergic reaction, which can vary widely depending on the type of allergen and the individual’s sensitivity.

Common symptoms of allergies include:

1. Respiratory symptoms: Sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath.
2. Skin symptoms: Itching, hives, eczema, redness, swelling.
3. Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain.
4. Eye symptoms: Red, itchy, watery eyes.
5. General symptoms: Fatigue, headache, irritability.

In severe cases, an allergic reaction can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Anaphylaxis can cause difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness.

Allergies can be diagnosed through various methods, including medical history, physical examination, and allergy testing. Treatment may involve avoiding allergens, taking medications to relieve symptoms (antihistamines, decongestants, etc.), and, in some cases, undergoing allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots).

The ALEX Allergy test examines up to 300 types of allergens simultaneously. The array of allergens encompasses common triggers for allergies, such as foods, pollen, cat and dog dander, mites, insect venoms, moulds and yeasts, and latex.

You can find a comprehensive list of tested allergens in the ALEX Allergy Test Sample Report

Individuals with allergies typically exhibit elevated levels of IgE in their blood. The ALEX Allergy test assesses:

1. The total concentration of IgE antibodies in the blood provides insights into the likelihood of an allergy (unlikely, possible, or likely).
2. The quantity of IgE antibodies produced in response to each specific allergen, indicating test results as negative/uncertain or showing low, moderate, high, and very high levels of IgE.
3. Cross-reactivity between different allergens due to the presence of a protein (a PR-10 allergen) with a similar structure—for instance, the connection between birch tree pollen and various foods.

Over-the-counter home allergy tests may lack reliability, heightening the risk of yielding inaccurate results—presenting a positive outcome in the absence of an actual allergy or a negative result despite its presence. Such instances can detrimentally impact one’s quality of life, potentially causing unnecessary lifestyle adjustments (like avoiding certain foods) or instigating unwarranted anxiety. In more severe cases, it could even lead to life-threatening anaphylactic shock. The significance of an ALEX Allergy test lies in its ability to precisely identify the specific allergen. Once identified, a healthcare professional can then provide tailored recommendations for effectively managing the allergy.

The ALEX Allergy test becomes necessary when there are indications of allergic symptoms. These symptoms encompass:

1. Respiratory symptoms (e.g., hay fever/allergic rhinitis), which may manifest as a blocked or runny nose, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, breathlessness, and itchy red watering eyes.
2. Gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., cow’s milk allergy), involve vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and irregular bowel movements.
3. Skin symptoms (e.g., atopic dermatitis/eczema), are characterized by itchy, red, swollen, and peeling skin areas.

Blood IgE allergy tests are commonly employed when traditional allergy skin testing is impractical. This could be the case when a person is on medication that could influence test results and cannot discontinue the medication, has a skin condition that hinders accurate assessment, experiences urticaria upon skin scratching, or faces the potential for a serious allergic reaction to the allergens being tested.

Furthermore, blood IgE allergy tests may be preferred over challenges, where incremental doses of a potential allergen (e.g., a food or medicine) are administered. These challenges are closely monitored by a doctor due to the risk of a severe allergic reaction.

The ALEX® Allergy test checks for allergens using a small blood sample. We collect the sample from you at our clinic. The results typically take up to 10 days and are sent directly to you through secure email. The Alex test results will tell you if you have allergies and specify what you’re allergic to. This can be taken to your GP or doctor for further interpretation.

The ALEX® Allergy test results will indicate the total IgE level in the blood. If the total IgE level is below 20 kiloUnits per liter (kU/L), it suggests that an allergy is unlikely. An IgE level between 20 and 100 kU/L suggests a possible allergy, while a total IgE level exceeding 100 kU/L indicates a likely allergy.

The test also reveals the IgE concentration for each allergen, reported as Grades from 0 to 4 and in kilo Units of allergen per liter (kUA/L). Here’s a breakdown:

• Grade 0 (negative or uncertain): Concentration below 0.3 kUA/L
• Grade 1 (low IgE level): Concentration 0.3 to 1 kUA/L
• Grade 2 (moderate IgE level): Concentration 1 to 5 kUA/L
• Grade 3 (high IgE level): Concentration 5 to 15 kUA/L
• Grade 4 (very high IgE level): Concentration above 15 kUA/L

Furthermore, the test identifies allergens with cross-reactivity, attributed to the presence of the PR-10 protein.

Allergies often have a hereditary component, so parents can anticipate potential allergies in their children. Infants should be exclusively breastfed or given hydrolyzed milk formulas for the first six months to lower the risk of early-age allergies. Afterwards, a diverse range of baby foods can be introduced, including those known to cause allergies. Having a pet dog or cat during the first year of life may also offer some protection against allergies.

Once an allergen is identified, avoiding exposure to that specific trigger involves preventing an allergic reaction. Here are some preventive measures:

1. Food Allergies:
   • Check food labels and ingredient lists for allergens.
   • Notify restaurants about allergies when dining out.
2. Dust Mites:
   • Opt for wooden or tiled flooring over carpets.
   • Regularly wash bed linens, vacuum soft furnishings/toys, wipe surfaces, and use air filters.
3. Pets:
   • Regularly clean and groom pets to minimize allergens from dead skin, fur, saliva, and urine.
4. Mould Spores:
   • Keep rooms dry and well-ventilated to prevent mould growth.
5. Pollen Allergy:
   • Apply Vaseline around nostrils to trap pollen.
   • Wear sunglasses, check pollen counts in weather reports, and stay indoors during high counts.
6. Insect Stings and Bites:
   • Use insect repellents and minimize skin exposure.

In addition to these measures, a doctor may recommend medications like antihistamines, decongestants, lotions/creams, steroids, or allergen immunotherapy (previously known as desensitization) to increase tolerance to specific allergens.

For individuals experiencing anaphylaxis, immediate treatment is crucial. Adrenaline auto-injectors are prescribed for those at risk and should be carried out at all times. Adrenaline acts quickly, opening airways, reducing swelling, raising blood pressure, and relieving hives and gut symptoms. Auto-injectors must be used at the first signs of a severe allergic reaction, with an ambulance called immediately afterwards.