What is a Respiratory Allergy Panel?
Ah, spring. It’s finally warm again after a long, hard winter. The perfect time to get outside for long walks in the neighborhood, hikes in the hills, or soaking up the sun on your favorite rooftop.
But that “ah” can quickly become “ah-choo” if you’re one of the 36 million Americans with allergy problems. The runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion – all typical respiratory allergy symptoms – can slow you down and make you miserable.
Your immune system controls how your body defends itself by identifying foreign invaders and attacking them. When your immune system identifies a foreign invader, it goes into overdrive by producing antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies travel to cells that release chemicals, causing an allergic reaction.
Each type of IgE has a specific “radar” of sorts for each type of allergen. That’s why some people are only allergic to one thing, while others have allergic reactions to multiple allergens, because they have many more IgE antibodies.
A Respiratory Allergy Panel is a blood test that measures levels of sensitivity to various substances found in the environment. Allergies are made up of a number of conditions that are caused by hypersensitivity of the immune system to something in the environment that usually causes little problems in most other people.
This blood test measures the presence of IgE antibodies to specific environmental allergens. IgE is the antibody that triggers environmental allergy symptoms, which can range from airway constriction to dizziness or lightheadedness.
The Respiratory Allergy Panel typically includes:
What does a Respiratory Allergy Panel include?
- Cat and dog dander allergy.
- Mold allergy.
- Cockroach allergy.
- Ragweed, ash tree, birch tree, cottonwood tree, elm tree, bermuda grass, orchard grass, timothy grass, maple tree, walnut tree, mulberry, and many more.
For many people, avoiding allergens and taking over-the-counter medications is enough to ease symptoms. But if your allergies are still bothersome, don’t give up. A number of other treatments are available and you should consult your doctor for further advice.
When will I receive my results?
Once completed, you will receive your results within 3-5 business days in your LabFinder portal.
How do I prepare? Do I need to fast?
No preparation or fasting required. Just bring your LabFinder Order and Insurance Card to your appointment.
Book a Respiratory Allergy Panel
