Are you dealing with a stuffy nose, chronic congestion, and debilitating headaches? You're not going crazy; allergens could be the culprit! An estimated 50 million people in the United States suffer from seasonal allergies.
In all likelihood, many more don't know about their allergies! Don't let yourself be one of those people. Testing for allergies can help you find suitable treatment and management techniques. But how can you test for allergies at home?
Why You Should Consider Getting an Allergy Test
Before we get into at-home testing, let's talk about allergy testing as a whole. Many allergens could trigger a response from your immune system. The most common is pollen. Stepping outside during the spring season instantly inundates you with airborne pollen, wreaking havoc on your sinuses.
Other common allergens include pet dander, dust, and other things you'll find in and around your home.
The goal of allergen testing is to pinpoint what triggers an immune response. Knowing what allergens affect you most gives you the power to find treatment. You can adjust your lifestyle to avoid allergens or even try immunotherapy after a home allergy test. Whatever the case might be, knowledge is power! That's why allergy testing is so important.
How Does a Home Allergy Test Work?
Traditionally, allergy tests occur in a medical setting. A physician will apply allergens to the skin and note which cause the most significant reactions.
At-home kits work similarly. However, you don't have to visit an office or leave the comfort of your home. Kits include everything you need to complete the test. They also have detailed instructions, and most provide easy access to how-to videos for accessibility.
Once you complete the test, you send it back to the lab. There, physicians can review the data, determine which allergens affect you most, and provide recommendations on how you can manage your allergies.
Taking Control of Your Allergies
No one wants to deal with allergies. But the worst thing you can do is ignore them. Taking an at-home allergen test empowers you with knowledge, giving you the information you need to seek treatment.
Author Resource:-
Alester Brown is a certified immunotherapist. She advises people on personalized home allergy and skin treatment at home. You can find her thoughts at allergy testing blog.