Question 1

What is Rodent Allergy?

Accepted Answer

Rodent allergy is an immune system reaction to proteins found in mouse and rat urine, dander, and saliva. It is caused by the immune system producing IgE antibodies against rodent proteins, particularly those found in urine, which become airborne and trigger respiratory symptoms. The Respiratory Allergy Profile is the most important test for diagnosis because it measures specific IgE antibodies to mouse urine proteins.

Question 2

What causes rodent allergy?

Accepted Answer

Rodent allergy is caused by proteins found in the urine, dander, and saliva of mice and rats. When rodents urinate or groom themselves, these proteins dry and become airborne as microscopic particles that you can breathe in. Your immune system mistakenly identifies these harmless proteins as dangerous invaders and produces IgE antibodies to fight them, triggering allergic reactions. This allergic response causes the release of histamine and other chemicals that lead to your symptoms.

Question 3

What is the best test for rodent allergy?

Accepted Answer

The Respiratory Allergy Profile is the most important test for rodent allergy because it measures specific IgE antibodies your immune system produces in response to mouse urine proteins. This blood test provides definitive evidence that your symptoms are caused by rodent allergens rather than other respiratory triggers like pollen or dust mites. Regional profiles like the Respiratory Allergy Profile Region XIV for California's central valley or Region XV for southern Idaho and Nevada test for mouse urine proteins alongside other common environmental allergens in your area. Elevated IgE levels to rodent proteins confirm the diagnosis and help you understand exactly what is causing your sneezing, congestion, and breathing difficulties.

Question 4

When should I get tested for rodent allergy?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you develop sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, or asthma symptoms in places where rodents may be present, such as older buildings, laboratories, pet stores, or homes with rodent infestations. Testing is particularly important if your symptoms worsen in certain environments but improve when you leave those areas. You should also get tested if you work in research facilities, animal care settings, or pest control where you have regular exposure to mice or rats, or if you notice your breathing problems are worse at night when rodents are typically more active.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of rodent allergy?

Accepted Answer

Rodent allergy symptoms include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy and watery eyes, and coughing. You might notice throat irritation, postnasal drip, and sinus pressure that feels like a persistent cold. Some people develop asthma symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing, especially at night. Skin reactions can occur if you directly touch rodents or contaminated surfaces, causing hives, redness, or itching where contact occurred.

Question 6

Who is at risk for rodent allergy?

Accepted Answer

People who work in laboratories, research facilities, veterinary clinics, pet stores, or animal care settings have the highest risk due to regular rodent exposure. Those living in older buildings, homes with rodent infestations, or urban areas with high rodent populations are also at increased risk. Children and adults with existing allergies or asthma are more likely to develop rodent allergies. Additionally, people working in pest control, cleaning services in infested buildings, or living in low-income housing with poor structural maintenance face elevated risk of exposure to rodent allergens.

Question 7

What happens if rodent allergy is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated rodent allergy can lead to chronic respiratory problems and worsening asthma that becomes harder to control over time. Continuous exposure to rodent allergens causes persistent inflammation in your airways, which can result in permanent breathing difficulties and reduced lung function. You may develop chronic sinusitis with recurring sinus infections that require repeated antibiotic treatment. Sleep quality suffers due to nighttime congestion and breathing problems, leading to daytime fatigue and reduced quality of life. In severe cases, untreated rodent allergy can trigger life-threatening asthma attacks.

Question 8

Can rodent allergy be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, rodent allergy can be definitively diagnosed with a blood test that measures specific IgE antibodies to rodent proteins, particularly those found in mouse urine. These blood tests are highly accurate and provide specific information about which rodent proteins trigger your immune response. Blood testing is often preferred over skin prick tests because it does not require you to stop taking antihistamines beforehand, carries no risk of triggering a severe allergic reaction during testing, and provides quantitative results showing the level of your allergic sensitivity.

Question 9

How is rodent allergy treated?

Accepted Answer

Rodent allergy treatment starts with avoiding exposure by eliminating rodent infestations and sealing entry points in your home or workplace. Antihistamines like cetirizine or loratadine help control sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, while nasal corticosteroid sprays reduce inflammation and congestion. If you have asthma symptoms, your doctor may prescribe inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators to keep airways open and prevent attacks. Immunotherapy, either through allergy shots or sublingual tablets, can gradually desensitize your immune system to rodent proteins over time, providing long-term relief.

Question 10

How can I prevent rodent allergy symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Prevent rodent allergy symptoms by keeping your home rodent-free through proper food storage in sealed containers, regular garbage disposal, and sealing cracks and holes in walls and foundations. Use HEPA air purifiers in bedrooms and living areas to remove airborne rodent allergens, and vacuum frequently with a HEPA-filter vacuum. Wash bedding weekly in hot water and keep humidity levels below 50 percent to reduce allergen survival. If you work with rodents, wear protective equipment including masks and gloves, work in well-ventilated areas, and change clothes before going home to avoid bringing allergens into your living space.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with rodent allergy symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Saline nasal rinses help flush out allergens and reduce congestion by clearing rodent proteins from your nasal passages. Local honey may provide mild relief by exposing you to small amounts of environmental allergens, though this is more effective for pollen than rodent allergies. Quercetin, a natural compound found in apples and onions, acts as a natural antihistamine and can reduce allergic responses when taken as a supplement. Steam inhalation with eucalyptus oil helps open airways and soothe irritated passages, while drinking plenty of water keeps mucus thin and easier to clear from your respiratory system.

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.

Rodent Allergy Blood Test

What is Rodent Allergy?

What causes rodent allergy?

What is the best test for rodent allergy?

When should I get tested for rodent allergy?

References

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