Question 1

What is Respiratory Allergies?

Accepted Answer

Respiratory allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, occur when the immune system overreacts to airborne substances like pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and animal dander. They are caused by elevated allergen-specific IgE antibodies that trigger histamine release and inflammatory responses in the nasal passages and airways. The Respiratory Allergy Profile regional panels are the most important tests for diagnosis because they identify the specific allergens triggering your symptoms based on your geographic location.

Question 2

What causes respiratory allergies?

Accepted Answer

Respiratory allergies are caused by your immune system overreacting to harmless airborne substances like tree pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and animal dander. When you breathe in these allergens, your body produces allergen-specific IgE antibodies that trigger the release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals. This immune response causes the uncomfortable symptoms of sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, and sometimes difficulty breathing that characterize allergic rhinitis or hay fever.

Question 3

What is the best test for respiratory allergies?

Accepted Answer

The regional Respiratory Allergy Profiles are the most important tests for respiratory allergies because they detect allergen-specific IgE antibodies to the exact pollens, molds, and environmental triggers found in your geographic area. The Respiratory Allergy Profile Region XI tests for allergens common in mountainous western states like Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming, including mouse urine proteins, sheep sorrel pollen, and regional tree and grass pollens. The Respiratory Allergy Profile Region XV covers southern Idaho and Nevada allergens, specifically testing for cottonwood, maple, olive, and white mulberry tree pollens. These targeted regional panels provide more relevant results than generic allergy tests because allergens vary significantly by location based on local vegetation and climate.

Question 4

When should I get tested for respiratory allergies?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience recurring sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, or itchy eyes during specific seasons or after exposure to certain environments. Consider testing if over-the-counter allergy medications are not providing adequate relief, or if your symptoms interfere with your sleep, work performance, or daily activities. Testing is especially valuable if you have recently moved to a new region and developed new respiratory symptoms, or if you want to identify specific triggers so you can take targeted avoidance measures and work with your healthcare provider on an effective treatment plan.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of respiratory allergies?

Accepted Answer

Respiratory allergy symptoms include frequent sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, clear nasal discharge, itchy nose and throat, watery and itchy eyes, and postnasal drip. You might also experience coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing if allergens trigger asthma symptoms. Many people notice dark circles under their eyes, fatigue from poor sleep due to nasal congestion, and decreased sense of smell or taste. Symptoms often worsen during specific seasons when particular pollens are prevalent, or after exposure to indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, or mold.

Question 6

Who is at risk for respiratory allergies?

Accepted Answer

People with a family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema have a higher risk of developing respiratory allergies due to genetic predisposition. Children and young adults commonly develop these allergies, though they can appear at any age. Living in areas with high pollen counts, indoor exposure to dust mites or mold, and having pets increases your risk of sensitization. People with existing asthma are more likely to experience respiratory allergy symptoms, and those who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke face increased susceptibility to allergic reactions.

Question 7

What happens if respiratory allergies are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated respiratory allergies can progress to chronic sinusitis with recurrent sinus infections, ear infections, and persistent nasal congestion that affects your quality of life. Ongoing inflammation can trigger or worsen asthma, leading to difficulty breathing and potentially serious respiratory complications. You may develop nasal polyps, which are noncancerous growths in the nasal passages that cause obstruction and breathing difficulties. Chronic allergies also lead to sleep disturbances, daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and decreased productivity at work or school, significantly impacting your overall well-being.

Question 8

Can respiratory allergies be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, respiratory allergies can be accurately diagnosed with blood tests that measure allergen-specific IgE antibodies in your bloodstream. These blood tests are a convenient alternative to skin prick tests and are especially useful if you are taking antihistamines, have skin conditions that make skin testing difficult, or prefer to avoid multiple skin punctures. Blood testing provides specific information about which pollens, molds, dust mites, or animal proteins are triggering your symptoms. The results help you and your healthcare provider create a targeted avoidance plan and determine the most appropriate treatment options, including whether allergen immunotherapy would be beneficial.

Question 9

How are respiratory allergies treated?

Accepted Answer

Respiratory allergies are treated through a combination of allergen avoidance, medications, and sometimes immunotherapy. Once you identify your specific triggers through blood testing, you can minimize exposure by staying indoors during high pollen counts, using HEPA air filters, and reducing indoor allergens. Antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays, and decongestants help control symptoms, while leukotriene modifiers may be prescribed for more severe cases. For persistent allergies that do not respond well to medications, allergen immunotherapy through allergy shots or sublingual tablets can gradually desensitize your immune system to specific allergens, providing long-term relief.

Question 10

How can I prevent respiratory allergies?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot completely prevent developing respiratory allergies, you can reduce your exposure to common triggers and minimize symptom flare-ups. Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons and use air conditioning with HEPA filters to clean indoor air. Wash bedding weekly in hot water to eliminate dust mites, use allergen-proof covers on pillows and mattresses, and maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50% to prevent mold growth. Remove shoes at the door, shower before bed to remove pollen from hair and skin, and avoid outdoor activities during peak pollen times, typically early morning and windy days.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with respiratory allergies?

Accepted Answer

Natural approaches to managing respiratory allergies include using saline nasal rinses or neti pots to flush allergens and mucus from nasal passages, which can provide immediate relief from congestion. Local honey may help some people build tolerance to local pollens, though scientific evidence is limited. Quercetin, a natural bioflavonoid found in apples and onions, has antihistamine properties that may reduce symptoms. Butterbur supplements have shown promise in clinical studies for reducing allergy symptoms, though you should consult a healthcare provider before taking any supplements. Maintaining a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin C may help reduce inflammation associated with allergic responses.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Respiratory Allergies Blood Test

What is Respiratory Allergies?

What causes respiratory allergies?

What is the best test for respiratory allergies?

When should I get tested for respiratory allergies?

References

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