ALLERGY FAQs

Common Allergy Questions Answered

Are allergy tests accurate? How much do allergy tests cost? Are allergy tests reliable? Are allergy tests covered by insurance? Are allergy tests painful? How are allergy tests done? Are food allergy tests accurate? Can allergy tests be wrong? Can allergy tests be done on babies? Can allergy tests make you sick? 

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Try our frequently asked questions to learn more about common allergy questions.

Allergies: frequently asked questions

Are allergy tests accurate?

Yes - blood tests for specific antibodies and individual allergy skin prick tests are very accurate.



How much do allergy tests cost?

The costs vary. We test for 26 of the most common food and inhaled allergens, along with latex and bee venom, are tested, with results available in 48 hours – then emailed to patients. This test costs £200, which is markedly less than prices from pathology labs, which are around £25 – 30 per allergen – sometimes over £600. You can see a full list of our prices at http://www.mikedilkes-entlaser.co.uk/allergies/



Are allergy tests reliable?

Blood tests very reliable. Skin prick can vary depending on the allergic status of the patient that day.



Are allergy tests covered by insurance?

Yes, usually they are. However it is always worth checking with your insurer.



Are allergy tests painful?

No. For allergy blood tests, a small needle is used as just a small amount of blood is needed. Skin prick tests are very light touch and patients rarely experience pain at all.



How are allergy tests done?

Allergy tests are done through a combination of blood tests and skin prick tests.



Are food allergy tests accurate?

Yes, they are. In the same way that test for aero allergens like pollen etc are also accurate.



Can allergy tests be wrong?

Allergy test could be open for interpretaion as they can cross react - which is why blood tests need interpreting by an expert. As such the test are not wrong though.



Can allergy tests be done on babies?

Yes, skin prick tests are easy to perform on a baby. Blood tests can be more of a challenge.



Can allergy tests make you sick?

No. Skin prick tests can make your arm a bit itchy though.



Can allergy testing cause a fever?

No



Are allergy rashes itchy ?

Yes



Can allergy make you tired?

Yes - as allergy affects your ability to sleep properly.



Are allergic reactions dangerous ?

Yes, they can be. If concerned you should seek medical advice.



Are allergic reactions instant ?

Yes - in many cases allergic reactions occur pretty much instantly.



Are allergic reactions hereditary?
Yes allergy is often a genetic disease

Yes - allergy is often a genetic disease.



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Allergy Prices

  • Blood allergy testing for total IgE and comprehensive range of mixes: £250

  • Specific IgE: £20 per antigen

  • Skin prick test: £30 for positive and negative control plus one allergen.

  • Each subsequent allergen, add £15

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Please note that all allergen testing takes place at our HealthHub London surgery.

 

Allergy Treatment, Mike Dilkes ENT London
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