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Tests and diagnosis
By Mayo Clinic staffYour doctor will ask you questions about your allergies or any previous allergic reactions you've had. This evaluation will include questions about:
- Whether any particular foods seem to cause a reaction
- Any medications you take, and if certain medications seem linked to your symptoms
- Whether you've had allergy symptoms when your skin has been exposed to latex
- Whether stings from any particular type of insect seem to cause your symptoms
To help confirm the diagnosis:
- You may be tested for allergies with skin tests or blood tests
- You may also be asked to keep a detailed list of what you eat or to stop eating certain foods for a time
Your doctor will want to rule out other conditions as a possible cause of your symptoms, including:
- Fainting spells
- A condition other than allergies that causes flushing or other skin symptoms
- A blood sugar disorder
- Mastocytosis, an immune system disorder
- Psychological issues such as panic attacks
- Heart or lung problems
