The Immunoglobulin E Total (IgE-Total) test determines the total concentration of IgE antibodies in the blood. Usually, the immune system produces antibodies to fight off harmful substances like viruses and bacteria. However, if you are allergic to something like pollen or dust, your body also considers these harmful and produces IgE antibodies against them. This is why an IgE test can help determine if you have an allergy. Under normal circumstances, the blood contains small amounts of IgE antibodies. Elevated IgE antibody levels can suggest that the body is responding to something perceived as an allergen, creating an allergic response. High IgE levels may potentially suggest a parasite infection or certain immune system problems.

If you are living in Gurgaon and facing allergy symptoms like a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, or related concerns, Orange Health Labs offers an at-home IgE test. This test can identify whether you have an allergy, ensuring proper diagnosis and subsequent treatment.

To get accurate results on the test, keep in mind the following factors when booking a Total IgE test at home in Gurgaon:

• Prerequisites

There's no need to fast or undergo additional preparation for the IgE test.

• Best Time to Get Tested

You can take the IgE test whenever you like during the day.

• Who Should Take an IgE Test

An IgE blood test might be required if you experience:

• Cautions Before Taking an IgE Test

There are no specific safety measures needed for the IgE test.

An IgE test can help in identifying allergies to pets, pollen, foods, or other substances that can irritate. Your doctor may suggest an IgE test if you experience symptoms of an allergy, such as:

• Sneezing

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Coughing

• Headache

• Wheezing

• Sore throat

• Vomiting

• Shortness of breath

• Pain in the abdomen

• Watery, itchy eyes

• Nausea

• Diarrhoea

• Dry skin

• Eczema

• Itchy raised red patches on the skin (hives) or swelling (angioedema)

• Swollen tongue, face, lips, or eyes

• Tightness in the chest

Your doctor may decide to order an IgE blood test if:

• You are taking antihistamines or are unable to undergo a skin allergy test.

• You have a skin condition, such as hives or a rash.

• You have an allergic disorder, such as allergic asthma.

• There is suspicion of a parasitic infection, such as invasive helminthiasis.

• You have an immune system disorder like hyper IgE syndrome.

The IgE test measures IgE levels in the blood using the Enzyme-Linked Fluorescence Assay (ELFA) method. The normal IgE test values are listed below:

Clinical Significance

IgE levels generally increase during childhood and stabilise in the teenage years. IgE acts as a mediator in allergic responses. Conditions like allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis often lead to moderately elevated IgE levels. However, elevated total IgE can also be found in various non-allergic conditions, including:

• Parasitic infections

• Autoimmune diseases

• Immunodeficiency states

• Hodgkin's disease

• IgE myeloma

• Bronchopulmonary aspergillosis

• Sezary syndrome

Therefore, it is essential to discuss your Total IgE test results with your doctor to understand the causes of elevated IgE in your particular health condition.