Allergen testing is typically considered when allergy symptoms are present, such as itching, eye redness, tearing, nasal itching, and sneezing. Anastasia Spirina, head of the planned care doctors and psychological service at BestDoctor, confirmed this approach in a discussion with socialbites.ca.
To determine which allergens should be tested, the physician during the appointment evaluates the patient’s complaints, medical history, and examination findings. This careful review guides the choice of tests and the scope of the allergy workup.
As tree pollen season approaches, especially in May, it is common for doctors to suggest testing for an allergen mix. This broad panel helps identify potential culprits before moving to more targeted analyses.
One option may be a general blood test or a blood test for an allergen mix, which checks several allergens at once. Typical components might include gray alder, birch, hazel, and American ash. If the consultation indicates a particular allergen is relevant, a specific test can be ordered, for example a test focused on birch pollen.
Patients and providers can verify whether such analyses are included in their insurance coverage by reviewing the services listed in the policy or plan documents.
Insurance coverage varies by company and by the patient’s specific plan. Consequently, the available tests and the timing of testing can differ from one person to another. The emphasis from Spirina is on understanding which tests are accessible within a given insurance framework and how to proceed with the most appropriate investigations.
Commonly covered procedures under many programs include skin tests with standard panels, a measurement of total serum immunoglobulin E level in the blood when symptoms are unclear, and specific immunoglobulin E determinations. These tests form the core of the allergy evaluation and help designate the precise allergens responsible for the symptoms.
In closing, it is important for individuals to discuss all diagnostic options with their healthcare provider, weigh the costs and benefits, and confirm what testing is feasible within their insurance arrangement. A clear plan can help streamline the process from initial assessment to definitive identification of relevant allergens, ensuring informed decisions and better symptom management for patients.