Total IgE Test

Our bodies can develop allergic reactions to several things. The total IgE test is used to help screen and detect these allergens in the body. The test measures the level of IgE (immunoglobulin E) in the body, which is an antibody created by the body’s immune system to fight any threat that the body perceives. IgE is associated with several problems that are allergic reactions. Your doctor may ask you for an IgE test if you are battling problems that are connected to allergic reactions, especially if you and your doctor are unaware of the allergen that is causing the problem. Some symptoms may be persistent itching, itchy eyes, nausea, vomiting, and symptoms of asthma.

You do not need to prepare specifically for the test. You only have to make sure that you have gathered all the information from your doctor and are well aware of the process and the medications. Apart from this, make sure to wear short-sleeved T-shirt or Shirt to make it convenient. You can also wear sleeved shirts that roll up easily.

The test results are usually available in a few days’ time. High levels of IgE means that you have one or more allergies. The result of the test is affected by the type of allergen affecting you. For instance, if your allergen is seasonal, such as pollen, the result will show high IgE during that time of the year when the allergen is active. An increased level of IgE can let you know that allergy is present, however, the specific allergen cannot be determined.

For the test, your doctor or lab technician will place a plastic band on your upper arm; this is done to fill up the vein with blood and swell up. Then, he or she will clean the area with an antiseptic and put a needle. He will then draw a blood and keep it in a vial or tube. The plastic band and needle are removed and a bandage is applied to the area to stop the bleeding. The whole process usually takes a few minutes. The collected blood is then sent to the lab for analysis.