Onion Allergy Test

Onion allergy is a rare food allergy that can trigger adverse reactions ranging from mild to severe, including anaphylaxis. The immune system's response to the proteins present in onions causes the allergy. To diagnose an onion allergy, doctors may suggest an Onion Allergy Test. This test analyses the presence of specific antibodies in the blood that indicate an onion allergy.

Symptoms

The severity of an allergic reaction to onion varies from person to person. Some individuals may experience mild symptoms, while others may experience severe reactions that can lead to anaphylaxis, which is life-threatening.

The most common symptoms of onion allergy include skin rashes, hives, or eczema. The affected area may become itchy, swollen, or red. Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat can also occur. The swelling may make it difficult to breathe or swallow, which can be dangerous.

Other common symptoms include a runny nose or nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Abdominal pain or cramps can also be present, along with difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.

In severe cases, anaphylaxis may occur. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, a rapid or weak pulse, low blood pressure, dizziness or fainting, and loss of consciousness. It requires immediate medical attention, and individuals who are at risk of experiencing anaphylaxis should carry an epinephrine auto-injector with them at all times.

If an individual experiences any of these symptoms after consuming onions or onion-containing foods, they should seek medical attention immediately.

Test Procedure

The test requires a blood sample for analysis, and a trained technician will take the sample by inserting a needle into a vein in the arm. The process of drawing blood is quick and generally takes less than 5 minutes.

Before the test, the technician will clean the area on the arm with an antiseptic and place an elastic band around the upper arm to make the vein more prominent. They will then insert the needle into the vein and collect a small amount of blood into a tube. Once enough blood is collected, they will remove the needle, and the area will be covered with a bandage to stop bleeding. Then, the blood will be sent to a laboratory for analysis.

In the laboratory, the blood sample will be tested for the presence of specific antibodies that are produced in response to onion proteins. If the test detects these antibodies in the blood, it indicates that the individual is allergic to onions.

Treatment

If a person receives a positive diagnosis of onion allergy, their doctor will recommend avoiding onions and onion-containing products. Onion is commonly used as a flavouring agent in a wide range of foods, and it is essential to read food labels carefully to avoid inadvertently consuming it. Besides, cross-reactivity is also a concern as those with an onion allergy may also be allergic to other foods that belong to the same family, such as garlic and shallots.

In addition to avoiding onions, individuals with an onion allergy may also be prescribed antihistamines or epinephrine to manage symptoms in case of an allergic reaction. Antihistamines can help alleviate mild to moderate symptoms such as hives, runny nose, or itching. Epinephrine, on the other hand, is a life-saving medication that is administered through an injection to treat severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.

In some cases, a doctor may recommend immunotherapy to desensitise a person's immune system to onions. Immunotherapy involves administering small amounts of the allergen in gradually increasing doses to help the immune system build tolerance over time. This treatment can take several months or even years and is usually reserved for those with severe allergies that significantly impact their quality of life.

Benefits of an Early Diagnosis

Early detection of an onion allergy through the onion allergy test can help individuals avoid severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reactions. It enables them to manage their condition effectively by avoiding onion-containing foods and products and also helps in improving their quality of life.

Early diagnosis also facilitates prompt treatment, which can be lifesaving in severe cases. It is important to note that delaying the diagnosis and management of onion allergy can increase the risk of developing severe allergic reactions, which can be fatal. Therefore, if you experience any of the symptoms of onion allergy, it is important to get tested as soon as possible.

Individuals can easily opt for the onion allergy test on Apollo 24/7's user-friendly website and app. After booking a slot of their choice, the patient can visit the nearest Apollo clinic to provide their blood sample. The test results will be available within 6 days of the sample collection.