The allergy clinic specializes in the diagnosis and management of food and environmental allergies.
Read below for additional general information about allergies:
What is an allergy?
An allergy is a hypersensitive response of the immune system. The antibody immunoglobulin E (IgE) incorrectly identifies normally harmless substances (such as pollen, dust mites, or various food items) as threats. In response to this threat, the body produces chemical mediators that cause the characteristic symptoms of allergies; these symptoms can include: sneezing, runny nose, itchy throat and ears, and hives.
Allergy tests
Allergy tests are able to help identify which substances, or allergens, induce allergic reactions. Such tests have the ability to detect characteristic allergy symptoms, such as skin inflammation or elevated levels of IgE in the patient’s blood . These allergy tests are done after controlled exposure to possible allergens. The Wilderman Medical Clinic offers three different tests to best diagnose allergies:
Skin Prick Testing
First, a small amount of possible allergen is placed on the forearm. After this, a medical professional then pricks the patient’s skin in order to introduce the substances into the blood stream. The medical professional will subsequently observe the patient for visible inflammatory responses. Please note that results of this test should only interpreted by an allergy specialist; as positive reactions are not necessarily indicative of allergens. Skin testing is efficient, inexpensive and is often the first test suggested when an allergy is suspected.
Blood Testing
Blood tests are suggested in cases where patients suffer from widespread skin conditions, or are taking medication that makes skin testing impractical. In this instance, a blood sample is acquired from the patient after sequential exposure to potential allergens, and analyzed for elevated levels of IgE antibodies. Tests can determine not only the severity of an allergy, but can also help predict future symptom development.
Patch Testing
Patch testing identifies contact allergens (allergens that induce inflammatory responses via direct contact with the skin). Patch testing involves placing a small quantity of a potential contact allergen on the skin, and then a medical professional would cover the allergen with an adhesive patch. We now offer North American Comprehensive panel tests, Corticosteroid panel tests, Metal Panel tests, cosmetic panel test and COVID -19 vaccine testing. After 48 hours, the patient’s skin would then be examined for a hypersensitivity reaction.. During this test, individuals are advised to avoid exposure to sunlight and any type of ultraviolet (UV) light.
Common allergens
Environmental Allergens
- Dust and dust mites
- Pollen
- Ragweed
- Mould
- Animal dander
- Insect stings (wasp, bee)
- Sunlight
Food Allergens
- Milk
- Soy
- Shellfish
- Fish
- Fruits
- Nuts
- Eggs
- Wheat
- Sulfite (sulphur-based compounds added to food as an enhancer and preservative).
Other
- Latex
- Medication
- Any substance that causes an inflammatory reaction when in contact with skin (contact allergens).
Treatment for Allergies