Rhinitis Provoking Screen

Three reasons the Allergic Rhinitis / Asthma Profile is right for you

• This profile helps identify common airborne and food allergens that may be triggering your allergy or asthma symptoms

• It measures both your overall allergy level (Total IgE) and specific allergens affecting you

• Understanding your triggers can help you manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups

What is Allergic Rhinitis and Allergic Asthma?

Allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma are conditions caused by your immune system overreacting to normally harmless substances such as pollen, animal dander, mould spores, or certain foods. These substances are known as allergens.

When you come into contact with an allergen you are sensitive to, your body releases chemicals like histamine. This can lead to inflammation in your nose, airways, lungs, and eyes.

• Allergic rhinitis often affects the nose and eyes, causing hay fever-type symptoms

• Allergic asthma affects the lungs and airways, leading to breathing difficulties

• Many people experience both conditions together, especially when exposed to environmental triggers

What are the symptoms of allergic rhinitis or allergic asthma?

Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may occur seasonally or all year round, depending on the allergen involved. Without proper management, symptoms can interfere with sleep, daily activities, and overall quality of life.

Common symptoms include:

• Sneezing, a blocked or runny nose

• Itchy, red, or watery eyes

• Coughing or a tight feeling in the chest

• Wheezing or shortness of breath

• Worsening of asthma symptoms after exposure to pets, pollen, dust, or mould

How does the Allergic Rhinitis / Asthma Profile work?

This blood test measures your Total IgE level, which gives an overall indication of allergic tendency, along with specific IgE antibodies to individual allergens. Identifying which substances trigger your immune response can help guide lifestyle changes, avoidance strategies, or further medical care.

The profile tests for the following allergens:

• Cat dander

• Dog dander

• Common silver birch pollen

• Timothy grass pollen

• Dust mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus)

• Alternaria alternata (mould)

• Aspergillus fumigatus (mould)

• Cladosporium herbarum (mould)

• Mugwort pollen

• London plane tree pollen

• Peanut

• Egg white

• Cow’s milk

What can I expect at my appointment?

Your appointment will involve a simple blood sample taken by a trained healthcare professional. The procedure is quick and usually takes only a few minutes.

There is no special preparation needed for this test. Once your sample has been analysed, you will receive a detailed report showing your Total IgE level and any specific allergens you are sensitised to.

Will I have a bad reaction to this test?

This is a routine blood test and is very safe. Most people experience no side effects other than mild discomfort at the site where the needle was inserted.

Occasionally, you may notice slight bruising, tenderness, or light-headedness for a short time after the blood draw. Serious complications are extremely rare. If you feel unwell after your test, you should inform a member of staff or seek medical advice.

How do I schedule my appointment?

To book your appointment, please click the “Book Your Appointment” button at the top of the page. Choose a convenient clinic, date, and time, and we will take care of the rest.