Cardamom, a medicinal herb, is known to benefit those with digestion problems. It is also a very common spice, used in dishes for both its aroma and health benefits. Consuming high levels of Cardamom can however act as an allergen.
Common symptoms of cardamom allergy include breathing difficulty, chest discomfort, skin inflammation, rashes and asthmatic symptoms as well. Allergies usually arise due to an increase in the level of IgE antibodies in the blood stream, and the same is tested during diagnosis.Allergists usually recommend two tests to diagnose food allergy. Blood test to detect presence of IgE Skin prick test to analyse direct effect of allergen.
No specific preparation is required for either, however the patient may experience slight discomfort during the skin prick test. For the blood test, it is recommended to wear a short sleeved T-shirt. Let the allergist know of any medicines being taken by the patient, particularly those involving Histamine.Though these tests are not completely reliable to for diagnosis of Cardamom allergy, they can be coupled with the patient's medical history for the same. Formation of a wheal (mosquito bite like bump) from the skin prick test can indicate a positive test for Cardamom allergy. A higher than normal count of IgE antibodies in the blood sample of the patient also indicates a positive test for Cardamom allergy.
For Blood Test: The patient's arm will be cleaned with an alcohol swab. A sterile needle will be pricked into the vein. About 2 ml blood will be drawn from the arm of the patient. The site will be cleaned with a cotton swab.
For Skin Prick: The patient's back or arm will be cleaned with an alcohol swab. A sterile needle containing a tiny amount of Cardamom allergen will be inserted into the site. The patient may experience slight discomfort if there is formation of a rash.
Type | Gender | Age-Group | Value |
---|---|---|---|
Allergy - Cardamon
|
UNISEX
|
All age groups
|
3mm
|