Cheddar Allergy Test

Cheddar is one of the many types of cheese, synonymous with its intricate and off-white texture. It is one of the most widely consumed cheeses worldwide, prepared using cow's milk. It is characterized by a sharp taste and is often paired with different foods, like sandwiches, or consumed on its own, in the form of cheese plates.

It is rich in fat, protein, calcium, and phosphorous and is known for its long shelf life. Although it is rare in Southeast and East Asian cuisines, it is often available as part of the menu at various events. Usually, cheddar cheese poses no harm to humans, except for people suffering from a cheddar cheese allergy.

Since cheddar cheese is prepared from milk, patients with this allergy are also often allergic to milk and dairy products. The allergic reactions are widely credited to casein, a protein present in milk. The immune system may view this compound as an allergen, leading to the production of histamine-producing antibodies. Ultimately, these histamines cause allergic symptoms in patients.

The cheddar allergy test is a diagnostic test where the patient's blood sample is tested against casein to confirm the presence of cheddar cheese allergy. The most standard method used to perform the test is the skin-prick test. The test involves lightly pricking the patient's forearm with a needle and introducing the allergen to the exposed part. If there is an emergence of a white bump with a small circle of itchy red skin around it, also known as a wheal, the patient might have a cheddar cheese allergy.

Alternatively, the lab can also use a blood test to diagnose the allergy. In this method, the clinical lab technician draws blood from the vein in the arm, usually at the bend of the elbow. The blood is then tested externally against casein to check for the formation of specific antibodies. If these antibodies are higher than usual, it could signal a cheddar cheese allergy in the patient.

Apollo 24/7 offers a comprehensive cheddar allergy test to address allergic symptoms and confirm the diagnosis of a cheddar cheese allergy. Some of the symptoms commonly seen during a cheddar cheese allergy are:

• Swelling of the lips, tongue, face, mouth, or throat
• Nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, runny nose, itchy eyes, or wheezing
• Skin reactions such as hives, a rash, or red, itchy skin

Usually, these symptoms are visible a few minutes after exposure to cheddar cheese, either via ingestion or inhalation. If these symptoms persist, it is vital to consult a doctor, who may recommend the cheddar allergy test to confirm the condition and start treatment. Severe allergic reactions may also lead to anaphylaxis, where the body enters a state of shock. The condition may cause the death of an individual.