Allergy, Elm

Elm allergy test is a diagnostic assessment that is used to detect the presence of an elm tree allergy. This is a wind pollen allergy triggered when elm tree pollen enters your bloodstream upon inhalation. These allergies generally have mild symptoms, including:

• Hives
• Difficulty breathing
• Runny nose 
• Wheezing 
• Red eyes
• Nasal congestion
• Swelling
• Coughing 
• Higher asthmatic reactions 
• Watery eyes
• Sore throat 
• Decreased sense of smell and taste

But what is the cause of this allergy? The exact cause of the allergy is not yet known. However, researchers have found that an allergic reaction occurs when your immune system mistakes an elm tree pollen for a dangerous substance. As a result, it releases an antibody known as Immunoglobulin (IgE).

The release of IgE into your system results in the above symptoms. This is where the Elm allergy test comes into the picture.

The test can follow two methods. The first one is a blood sample test, which involves drawing a blood sample from the vein in your arm. This blood is tested for IgE levels upon exposure to the allergen, and the results are obtained within just eight days. On the other hand, you can also perform a skin prick test.

The healthcare practitioner will prick your skin and expose your bloodstream to a minuscule amount of the allergen. If your skin swells up at the test site, then you test positive for elm allergy.

If the test results are positive, you must take necessary precautions immediately. Since you have a wind pollen allergy, you might be exposed to the allergen constantly. So, use the below-mentioned pointers to keep your allergy symptoms away:

• Keep a neti pot (squeeze bottle) handy to flush the allergens out of your nose
• Dry all your clothes in a drier and not on a clothing line
• Shower constantly and wash your clothes immediately after returning from outside
• Use air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and vacuum cleaners with a HEPA filter
• Delegate tasks to avoid going outside
• Do not take part in gardening tasks if the pollen count is high
• When guests come over, ensure that they do not bring their shoes into your house
• Change your clothes as soon as you get home.
• Do not step out without an N95 mask in case the pollen count on that day is very high

Moreover, there are no special preparations required before the test. You will, however, have to disclose your ongoing medication to your healthcare practitioner. If you are consuming anything that might interfere with the test (e.g., antihistamines), then you will have to put them on hold until the test is done.

However, remember to contact your healthcare practitioner if your allergy medications have side effects or if the symptoms worsen. Do not try herbs and supplements without consulting your doctor since you might tamper with the effectiveness of your ongoing medication.