Food Allergy Testing in Toronto
Food allergy testing and food sensitivity testing are commonly used in the same brearth, however they are slightly different, Food allergy testing is a helpful tool to identify immediate reactions to foods. Food allergies are detected by aAn immunoglobulin E (IgE) test measures the blood level of IgE, one of the five subclasses of antibodies. Antibodies are proteins made by the immune system that attack antigens, such as bacteria, viruses, and allergens. The IgE food allergy test is often performed as part of an initial screen for allergies. Symptoms of allergies may include hives, itchy eyes or nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, tight throat, and trouble breathing. Symptoms may be seasonal (as with allergies due to pollen or molds) or year-round (as with food allergies). They can range from mild to severe, depending on the individual and the allergy.
On the other hand, Food sensitivities are delayed reactions to specific foods that are triggered by IgG antibodies. In an IgG food sensitivity reaction, the IgG antibodies attach themselves to the food antigen and create an antibody-antigen complex. These complexes are normally removed by special cells called macrophages. However, if they are present in large numbers and the reactive food is still being consumed, the macrophages can’t remove them quickly enough. The food antigen-antibody complexes accumulate and are deposited in body tissues. Once in tissue, these complexes release iinflammation-causingnflammation causing chemicals, which may play a role in numerous diseases and conditions. These antibody/allergen reactions have been linked to the following conditions:
- Skin Conditions: eczema, psoriasis and acne
- Digestive Disorders: gas, bloating, cramping, diarrhea and nausea
- Respiratory Depositions: asthma and recurrent ear, nose, sinus and throat infections
- Joint Depositions: joint pain and immune mediated arthritis
- Mood/Attention Disorders: anxiety, depression, irritability, hyperactivity, lack of concentration
- Fatigue and pain
