Diagnosis of Allergies

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If you think you have an allergy, you should see your GP.

You will need to tell your GP about the symptoms you are having, when they happen and how often they occur.

Your GP will want to know if any family members have similar symptoms, or if there is a family history of allergy. You should also think about any triggers that seem to cause a reaction, and whether it happens at a particular place or time.

Your GP will probably carry out tests to identify the allergen that is causing your symptoms. Alternatively, you may be referred to an NHS or independent allergy clinic. There are about 90 NHS allergy clinics in the UK, some of which specialise in certain conditions such as asthma.

Even if you think you know what is causing the allergic reaction, you may need to be tested to find out the exact allergen. There are several different tests that can be carried out:

Skin prick test: this is usually the first test to be carried when looking for an allergen. The skin is pricked with a tiny amount of the suspected allergen to see if there is a positive reaction (the skin becomes itchy, red and swollen).
Blood test: this is used to measure the amount of IgE antibody in the blood, which has been produced by the immune system in response to a suspected allergen.
Patch test: this test is used to find the allergen causing eczema or contact dermatitis. Special metal discs are spread with a small amount of the suspected allergen and taped to the skin, usually for 48 hours, to see how the skin reacts. This test is usually carried out in dermatology (skin) departments in hospital.
Home allergy test: these kits can be used at home to find out if you are allergic to three of the most common allergens â€“ house dust mites, pollen and cats. The test contains a sterile finger pricker for you to take a small blood sample with. This is collected in a tube and posted to a laboratory that tests the sample and lets you know the results. Home allergy test kits can be bought from most chemists.