(previously known as RAST tests)
Serum specific IgE allergy tests are blood tests. These tests can
diagnose all types of allergy, but provide less specific results than
skin prick testing. They are useful when skin prick testing cannot be
used due to health or other reasons and can be done if you have
forgotten to stop taking antihistamines prior to testing, are taking
tricyclic antidepressants or pizotifen (for migraines) or you have
certain skin rashes/conditions. These tests are mostly useful if you
have an unusually high risk of anaphylaxis, e.g. if you have had it
before.
Once your allergic triggers are identified, avoiding or reducing
exposure to these allergens may reduce the chance of you having severe
asthma attacks and help your lungs to work better.
