Respiratory Allergy Panel
What Is a Respiratory Allergy? Symptoms and Testing
Respiratory allergy describes symptoms associated with sensitivity to airborne substances such as pollen, house dust mites, moulds or animal-derived allergens. Allergy symptoms may be seasonal or persist throughout the year.
A runny or blocked nose, repeated sneezing, an itchy nose and eyes, and watery eyes are common complaints. Coughing and wheezing may also occur; shortness of breath or asthma symptoms require medical assessment. Since symptoms can also be caused by infections or non-allergic conditions, diagnosis is not based on symptoms alone.
Which allergens can trigger respiratory allergies?
Depending on the person's medical history, respiratory allergy testing may investigate the following allergen groups:
- Tree, grass, cereal and weed pollens
- House dust mites
- Moulds
- Allergens from cats, dogs and other animals
- Cockroach and feather/bird allergens
Pollen seasons vary according to plant species, region and weather conditions. While some people experience symptoms only during certain periods, those sensitised to house dust mite or animal allergens may have symptoms throughout the year.
What does a respiratory allergy test show?
Measuring allergen-specific IgE in the blood helps investigate whether sensitisation to particular allergens is present. A positive result alone does not indicate that a person will necessarily experience symptoms when exposed to that allergen, nor does it indicate the severity of their allergy. The test result should be assessed by a physician alongside the timing and setting of symptoms and the person's medical history.
Respiratory allergy tests are not screening tests that need to be performed routinely for everyone. A physician may request testing when the diagnosis is unclear, symptoms persist, or identifying potential triggers would contribute to the clinical assessment.
Wellcare Respiratory Allergy Panel
At Wellcare Laboratories, a blood sample is tested for specific IgE against 26 respiratory allergens using the Euroimmun method. In addition to pollens, the panel covers house dust mites, moulds and animal-derived allergens. The suitability of the test and the clinical significance of the result should be determined through a physician's assessment. Learn about the Respiratory Allergy Panel.
How can symptoms be relieved?
Reducing contact with allergens that worsen symptoms may help. Keeping windows closed on days with high pollen counts, changing clothes after coming indoors and showering may reduce pollen exposure. Depending on the symptoms, treatment options may include intranasal corticosteroids and antihistamines; appropriate treatment should be discussed with a physician or pharmacist. Decongestant nasal sprays can worsen congestion when used for prolonged periods, so the recommended duration of use should be followed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is respiratory allergy testing recommended for?
Following a physician's assessment, testing may be requested for people who have seasonal or year-round nasal and eye symptoms and wish to identify potential triggers. The test is not a screening test that needs to be performed routinely for everyone.
Does a positive test result mean I definitely have an allergy?
A positive result indicates sensitisation to the allergen tested. Its relationship to your symptoms should be assessed by a physician; on its own, it does not establish an allergy diagnosis or indicate the severity of the condition.
Does the respiratory panel test for all allergens?
No. The Wellcare Respiratory Allergy Panel tests for specific IgE against the 26 respiratory allergens included in the panel. If an allergen not included in the panel or a non-allergic cause is involved, a negative result alone may not explain the cause of the symptoms.
Can a respiratory allergy test diagnose asthma?
No. The test helps assess sensitisation to specific respiratory allergens; diagnosing asthma requires a physician's assessment and the necessary lung function tests.
What should I do if I have wheezing or shortness of breath?
These symptoms may be related to allergies, but they can also have other causes. Medical attention should be sought, particularly if shortness of breath is severe or worsening rapidly.