Allergy - Cherry Test

Consuming fresh fruits like cherries can lead to oral allergy syndrome now called as pollen food allergy syndrome. The symptoms are mouth itching, with or without swelling of lips, tongue, palate (roof of the tongue) and throat. The IgE allergy test uses your blood sample to see whether you are allergic to cherry or not. Traditionally the test was performed by skin pricking method where a food item is pricked in your skin through a needle and the reaction the body gives was taken as the result of allergy test. Quick blood test allows the doctor to test allergy externally rather than causing unnecessary and painful reactions in your system.

No special preparation is required for the test. No fasting before the test is required. On the day of the test wear a T shirt or a short sleeved shirt to let the person easily take your blood sample. A full sleeve T shirt which can be easily folded is also perfectly fine.

The IgE test is specifically useful for children who suffer from allergy and skin prick test is dangerous for them. The test is performed to check allergy from specific allergens. Doctors may order to get the test done when the symptoms of allergy like itchy eyes or nose, mouth itching and swelling of throat is observed in the child. In some cases the test may be used to monitor the effectiveness of allergy treatments or to see if the child has developed an allergy to cherries.

A halth professional usually draws blood from the vein. In case of infants the blood can be obtained by puncturing the heel with a small needle. The skin surface is cleaned with an antiseptic and an elastic band is tied on the upper arm to apply the pressure and swell the veins with blood. After the procedure the elastic band is removed. Once the blood is obtained the needle is removed and the area is covered with cotton or a bandage to stop the bleeding.