What is allergy?
Allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction that occurs when the body initiates an immune reaction against proteins (allergens) in food or in the air. The body misinterprets these proteins as being harmful. These reactions are considered abnormal.
Reactions may be mild, in the form of a rash. More severe reactions can occur, such as anaphylaxis. Allergy can present with an immediate reaction (rash, itch, swelling, breathing difficulties) or a delayed reaction (eczema, colic, reflux, constipation, diarrhoea, stomach pain, vomiting).
Types of Allergy
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is the most severe type of allergic reaction and can be life-threatening. It presents with an itchy rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, collapse or persistent vomiting after contact with an allergen. It requires management with emergency medication in the form of adrenaline pens.
It is important to see an Allergy specialist if you have ever experienced anaphylaxis. Testing is performed to give an accurate diagnosis. Education is given on avoiding the culprit allergen, preventing an allergic reaction and how to manage an allergic reaction if it was to occur.
Food Allergy
The commonest foods causing allergy include milk, wheat, soy, egg, peanut, treenuts (hazelnuts, almonds, walnuts, pecans, brazil nuts, cashew, pistachio), fish, shellfish, kiwi and sesame. Allergy can occur to more than one food.
Some food allergy occurs because of cross-reactivity between foods and pollen, a condition called pollen-food syndrome/oral allergy syndrome. All suspected food allergy requires a referral to an Allergy specialist. An accurate diagnosis is important to ensure food allergy is well managed, particularly in cases where there is co-existing asthma.
Food intolerance
Food intolerance is a hypersensitivity reaction that does not involve the immune system. There are no scientifically validated tests for intolerance. Diagnosis is based on the symptoms and elimination/exclusion of suspected foods followed by re-introduction into the diet. An allergy consultation can help differentiate food allergy from food intolerance.
Hay fever (Allergic Rhinitis)
Animal Dander allergy
Allergic Rhinitis presents as nasal itching, sneezing, runny nose, blocked nose and snoring. It can occur at certain times of the year, for example, pollen allergy in spring, grass allergy in summer or can occur all year round, as with dust or animal dander allergy. It can impact on sleep and result in reduced concentration and poor energy levels during the day. Studies have shown that it affects performance in school, at exams and in the workplace. An accurate diagnosis and management can help improve symptoms, particularly if there is co-existing asthma.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Allergic conjunctivitis presents as recurrent red, itchy eyes. It often co-exists with allergic rhinitis. It may only occur at certain times of the year or may be all year round. In severe cases, it has the potential to cause damage to the conjunctiva (lining of the eye) and impair sight. Allergy testing is important to assess the severity, identify culprit allergens and ensure symptoms are well managed to prevent any long term damage to eyesight.
Asthma
Asthma is a common condition affecting adults and children. It is often poorly controlled which can impair an individual’s quality of life but also if not appropriately managed, put one at risk of a life-threatening asthma attack. Asthma may or may not be caused by allergy. Allergy testing identifies allergic asthma, which often co-exists with allergic rhinitis, allowing more optimised management. If you have a food allergy and asthma, then it is particularly important to see an Allergy specialist.
Eczema
Approximately 1 in 5 children suffer from eczema. It is characterised by itchy, inflamed skin. Children with eczema are at increased risk of food allergy and other allergic conditions. An allergy consultation can help to identify if allergy is driving the eczema and in turn, optimise management and provide advice to help prevent future food allergy in these children.
Urticaria (Itchy, hive-type rash) Angioedema (swelling)
Urticaria and/or angioedema can occur in both adults and children. Allergy is one of many underlying causes. Sometimes no cause can be identified. An allergy consultation can help identify an underlying cause and skin prick testing or blood testing is performed to further evaluate. Advice on management is then provided.
What can be tested?
Not all foods cause allergy. The list below are the most common foods causing allergy which are tested in the clinic.
Some tests can only be performed on blood testing. If your particular food of concern is not listed here, please contact the clinic in advance of your appointment.
Food Allergy
Milk, Egg, Wheat, Soy, Oat, Peanut, Almonds, Walnuts, Pecans, Hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, Cashew, Pistachio, Macadamia, Strawberry, Tomato, Kiwi, Celery, Mustard, Lupin, Sesame, Pine nut, Tuna, Prawn, Lobster, Crab, Mussel, Cod, Salmon, Pea, Lentils, Chickpea.
Inhalant Allergy
Dust, Grass mix, Early tree pollen, Late tree pollen, Silver birch pollen, Timothy grass, Mugwort, Moulds, Cat, Dog, Horse
Fees
Initial consultation (new patients): €200 / 45mins - 1hr
Review consultation: €100-€200 / 30-60mins
Please check with your health insurance provider if allergy testing is covered prior to your appointment