Food Sensitivity Testing
(Medical Procedures and Examinations)
This topic will help you learn about food sensitivity testing and how to prepare for it.
What is food sensitivity testing?
It is a procedure used to diagnose food allergies in a person. The procedure is performed under medical supervision to accurately diagnose or rule out a true food allergy.
The two most commonly used types of food allergy tests are:
Skin prick test to measure food sensitivity:
A needle is used to prick the skin with a drop of the suspected allergen extract. If the person is allergic to that substance, red raised bumps will appear at the prick site about 15 minutes after the test.
Blood test to measure food sensitivity:
The blood allergy test measures the level of a specific type of antibody related to a certain food or protein in it. People who are allergic to certain foods produce higher levels of antibodies to that food or protein compared to those who are not allergic.
When is food sensitivity testing done?
Food sensitivity testing is performed for individuals who are at higher risk of developing an allergy to a specific food. Several factors can increase the likelihood of food allergies, including:
Genetics:
Genetic factors play a role in the development of food allergies. People with a family history of food allergies, a congenital disorder associated with food allergy, or a related allergic condition are more prone to developing food allergies.
Eczema:
The skin condition known as eczema is the most significant risk factor for food allergies. People with moderate to severe eczema are more likely to have food allergies than those with mild or no eczema.
Asthma:
A person is more likely to experience a severe allergic reaction to food if they have asthma.
The importance of preventing food allergies
Food allergy is a serious health condition; therefore, it is essential to identify the food that causes the reaction and avoid it. You should not eliminate entire food groups from your diet without medical advice. It is recommended to consult your doctor and request allergy testing if you suspect a food allergy.
How to prepare for food sensitivity testing
The doctor begins by taking a complete medical history and performing a physical examination. After that, the appropriate type of test — either a skin prick test or a blood test — is chosen to accurately identify the specific antibodies involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the symptoms of food allergy that require food sensitivity testing?
- It is advised to seek medical advice and undergo testing if any of the following symptoms appear after eating a certain food:
- Swelling of the lips, face, or eyes
- Difficulty breathing
